Sylvester Williams

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Sylvester Williams, a beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, who departed this life on Sunday, December 8, 2024, in Arkadelphia, Arkansas. Born on November 20, 1945, in Malvern, Arkansas to Chester Williams and Dora Young Johnson, Sylvester dedicated his life to hard work, family, and his cherished hobbies. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered for his unwavering spirit and infectious laughter.

He was a graduate of Wilson High School in Malvern, Arkansas. He met and married the sweet Mae Sue Johnson on June 26, 1970. They settled and made their home in Okolona, Arkansas. Sylvester was a proud log cutter with Keith Stone Logging for over 30 years. He retired from the logging industry as a trusted and skilled professional, known for his dedication and attention to safety. Following his retirement, he applied his talents as a safe and timely transportation specialist with the Central Arkansas Development Council (CADC), where he continued to impact the lives of his passengers and co-workers.

A true outdoorsman at heart, Sylvester found joy in fishing, hunting, and cooking under the open sky - his fried fish and barbecue were legendary among friends and family. His passion for nature extended into various hobbies; he took great pride in mowing lawns, gardening, and scrapping iron, all while enjoying every moment spent outdoors.

Sylvester's warm-hearted nature was complemented by his wonderful sense of humor. He delighted in sharing his "Sylvester Truths," a collection of jokes that brought smiles and laughter to everyone around him. His ability to uplift those in his presence was a testament to his compassionate soul.

An ordained deacon at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, Sylvester exemplified service and devotion to the Okolona and Antoine communities. His selflessness extended beyond the church walls; he volunteered with both the Antoine and Okolona Fire Departments, embodying a spirit of bravery and commitment that inspired all who knew him.

Sylvester leaves his loving wife, Mae Sue. Their partnership was a stronghold of love and support, enriching the lives of everyone fortunate enough to witness their bond. He leaves his children, James Muhammad of Atlanta, GA, Anissa (Joe) Carter of Camby, IN, Sylvester “Ike” (Valerice) Williams of Rialto, CA, Veronica (Undra) Spencer of Okolona, AR, Louis Williams of Malvern, AR, Denethia McDaniel, Jacqueline Waters, Willie (Teresa) Waters, Eddie (Matasha) Water and Trina Jones all of Okolona, AR; a sister, Bobby Jean Williams and a brother, Carl (Cynthia) Williams all of Suisan, CA; a bonus daughter, Clara “Punkin” Dixon; special nieces, Linda Barnum and Sharon Johnson; his best friend, Louis Broomfield and close friend, Darwin Hendrix. He also leaves s host of niece, nephews, other relatives, friends and the Pleasant Grove Baptist Church Family. 

The viewing will be held at Williams Funeral Home on Friday, December 20, 2024, from noon until 7:00 p.m. The family will greet friends from 6:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. where friends and family will gather to share memories of his life. In honoring Sylvester's legacy, heartfelt services remembering a man whose laughter and love will echo through our lives forever will be held at 12 noon on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church with Pastor B. D. Williamson, eulogist. Interment will be at Pleasant Grove Cemetery.

Active pallbearers will be Tavarous Moore, Joe Leeper, Chris Wesson, Adrian Jordan, Marlon Jones and Darwin Hendrix. Honorable to mention are Caleb Spencer, Ethan Waters, Wydarius Williams, Montreal Waters, Malik Jones, Jacoby Williams, Kevin Leeper, Tyrone McDaniel, Corneilus Waters, Lamarr Jones, Remond Thomas, Undra Spencer, Peyton Williams, Vincent Henderson, and the Deacons of the Pleasant Grove Baptist Church.