Hershell C. Williams, Sr.

Romans 3:23-24 teaches…for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. For Hershell C. Williams, Sr., being a son, brother, father, grandfather, friend, uncle, patriarch, mentor, neighbor, counselor, confidante, and servant were all honorable callings. Moreover, he was a part of the generation that counted friendship as a virtue. When Hershell was born on July 10, 1957, he was blessed with God fearing parents; James and Christine Williams who, by example, taught Christian values, integrity and ingenuity that resulted in a solid and caring family environment. His parents were highly respected among friends and neighbors in Gurdon. They taught him “a good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.” He confessed his faith in Christ at a tender age and united with Bethel A. M. E. Church in Gurdon at a young age. Hershell grew up to be a handsome and intelligent young man. He was in the class of 1975 of Gurdon High School. While in high school he started dating the beautiful Pamela; who would become his high school sweetheart. Although he was 17 and she was 15 their loved blossomed into a fruitful marriage on April 7, 1979. Hershell and Pamela were married for 34 years and their union was blessed with Hershell, Jr., and the birth of Twylia. He took his role as father seriously. He worked hard and made many sacrifices to take care of his family. His children and grandchildren were his pride and joy. He taught them to follow the golden rule --" treat others as they would want to be treated”. “Pops” as he was known as by family and friends was not only a father to his children, but he was a father to all. He would offer words of encouragement if he felt the person was in need. He gave his all to helping others by feeding the hungry, loving his neighbors, or providing shelter to those in a time of need. He not only “talked the talk”, he “walked the walk.” His hobbies included traveling, cooking, and fishing; he loved to barbeque and to just have a good time. One of his greatest joys was spending memorable moments with relatives and friends, both young and old. His legacy of family togetherness, hospitality and community will live on in the hearts of his loved ones and friends. He possessed a friendly spirit and never met a stranger. He meant what he said, and said what he meant. His natural wit and humor could chase the chill from any room. He preached kindness, respect of self and others. He was preceded in transition by his father, James Williams, and two brothers, Linus Williams and Truman Williams. On Saturday, September 21, 2013; in his 56th season of life he began his eternal celebration in a land that shall never grow old. He leaves to forever remember his legacy: his beloved Pamela of Raleigh, NC; his daughter, Ms. Twylia D. Williams of Raleigh, NC; his son, Mr. Hershell (Melanie) Williams, Jr., of Raleigh, NC; four grandchildren, Shalynn D. Williams, Pamela Hernandez, Jayden Williams, and Jeremiah Williams all of Raleigh, NC; his beloved mother, Christine Williams of Gurdon, AR; two brothers, Mack Williams of Phoenix, AZ, Albert Williams of Gurdon; four sisters, Maxine White, Katrine (James) Gentry, Janice Turner and Sanvernita Williams all of Gurdon. He also leaves five goddaughters, Shana Sorrell of Raleigh, NC, Tisa Frederick of Fayetteville, NC, Nicole Pridgen of Hanover, MD, Madey (Rene) Hernandez, and Angela (Eddie) Marsh both of Raleigh, NC; two godsons, Wayne (Erica) Morris of Greensboro, NC, and Reshad Sanders of Atlantic, GA; his mother-in-law, Quarlee Turner of Gurdon, AR; three brothers-in-law, T. S. Ollison of Gurdon, AR, Robert Turner of Gurdon, AR and Doyle Turner of Aurora, CO; one sister-in law, Delois Bell of Gurdon, AR; and a caravan of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and the family will receive friends from 7:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home A celebration of his life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 28, 2013 at Mt. Canaan Baptist Church. Bishop Bruce E. Rogers of Mt. Sinai Holy Church in Raleigh will deliver the message. Interment will follow in Rose Hedge Cemetery.