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Thomas Williams Obituary
Williams, Jr.
August 12, 1932-
November 12, 2013
Columbus, GA- Mr. Thomas "Sporty" Williams, Jr. passed away Tuesday, November 12, 2013 at his home in Columbus, GA. He was 82 years old.
Son of the late Thomas Sr. and Elizabeth Williams, "Sporty", as he was affectionately known by his family and friends, was a native of Columbus, GA. He graduated from historic Radcliff High School Class of 1949 in Columbus, and went on to attend Benedict College in Columbia, SC. While at Benedict, Mr. Williams became a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., and later obtained his BS degree in English. After graduating, Mr. Williams began his career as an educator, coach, and recruiter for Voorhees College, Denmark, SC. Upon retirement, Mr. Williams began a second career as a job trainer and youth counselor.
Mr. Williams is preceded in death by his wife of 36 years, Janie M. Williams, sons Gerald "Tommie" Williams and Reginald Williams, and daughter Donna Simmons.
He leaves to cherish his memory 8 children: Gregory Williams(Rhonda), Deborah Williams, Ray Martin (Dianne), Linda Williams Chapman, Dianne Wilson (Greg), Lorenzo Williams, Geoffrey Williams (Tanya), Eric Williams (Marcia), 23 grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.
The Homegoing Celebration will be held Thursday at 1:00pm at South Columbus United Methodist Church with interment following in Green Acres Cemetery. Rev. Reginald Williams will officiate. Visitation is today, 2 til 6pm at the funeral home. The cortege will depart from 1002 Diggs Avenue at 12:15 the day of the service. Arrangements entrusted to the staff of Progressive Funeral Home, Inc. "A Touch of Dignity for Those Who Care."
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Williams
jamie Cowell
November 24, 2013
Thank you for teaching me.you were the best English teacher.
The Boswell Family
November 22, 2013
You are in our thoughts and prayers. Your father will truly be missed. Stay strong in the Lord!
Kimberly Oates-Glover
November 21, 2013
Your wonderful influence made an impact on me my whole life. You were a great English teacher as well as a person. I will always cherish the nickname you gave me..."Killer O". Rest on Mr. Williams, you've done good!!!
Laura Lowe
November 21, 2013
My sincere condolences to the family. It is amazing how knowing someone even if for a short time can have an impact on one's life. It was through Sporty that I met his daughter-in-law and son. I cannot remember their names now. I met them in 1997, I believe. His daughter-in-law told me about a book by Suze Ormand called "The Seven Steps to Financial Freedon". That book transformed the way I identified with money and help me become much more proficient in money management since then. I had not seen him in years so I know he never knew how I was helped by his family members. To the family I trust your wonderful memories and God's comfort sustain you at this time.
anthony hitman kimble
November 20, 2013
Our prayers are with u coach Eric in ur time of lost but if u look to the hills in which cometh ur help my God will supply all ur needs
Francine Wilson-Shaw
November 20, 2013
May the Lord keep your soul rested. You are the primary reason why I fell in love with English and Literature. The educational system should have had plenty of Thomas Williamses throughout schools in the United States. You were a true Mentor. You will be truly missed. Rest.
Lambda Iota Chapter, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
November 20, 2013
Celebrating a life well lived; The Men of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity will miss you Brother and cherish the memories forever.
Brenda Morris
November 20, 2013
When your heart is empty, filling it with happy memories can help you find a smile.
Beverly Brown and Family
November 20, 2013
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Princess Crittenden-Walton
November 20, 2013
Bodie, Chip and Eric,
I am sorry to hear of your dad's passing. I am praying for you during this difficult time.
Mouse
November 20, 2013
May the love of God continue to comfort you doing this time. Mr. Williams was a great asset and inspiration to the Tallassee, Alabama City School System.
Thank you for a job well done!
Jahazel Hooks, Tallassee, Alabama
Louise, Richard&Jean Hollis
November 20, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
November 20, 2013
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Angelia Torane Jackson
November 20, 2013
Coach Williams,is what I remember him as.I am praying for your family, that God keeps them strong.Mt.Olive High School .
Gloria Branford-Strode
November 20, 2013
Sporty,
Thanks for the excellent job you did with the students in the GA Reading Challenge Program. You arrived early and stayed late daily because you believed that all students could reach their goals. WELL DONE!
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Progressive Funeral Home - Columbus4235 St Mary's Rd, Columbus, GA 31907
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