Christopher Williams

Christopher Williams, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, musician, chef, and friend, passed away January 4, 2025, at the age of 51. Born June 8, 1973, in Seaford, Delaware, Son to the late Apostle Dr. Leon Williams and Bishop Ethel Williams; Christopher lived a life full of love, kindness, and joy. Christopher's personality was larger than life. He was a charismatic social butterfly with an energy that could light up any room. Outgoing, loving, funny, and endlessly gregarious, Chris' presence made every gathering brighter and more memorable as he cherished celebrating life's moments, big and small, with the people he loved.
At his home church, Refuge Temple Revival Center, Chris participated in church youth group activities including the Royal Rangers. He was the drummer musician for the church and loved to travel with his parents in ministry to other extended church families. These experiences nurtured his faith and laid the foundation for his kind and compassionate spirit and love for God. He attended Seaford Senior High School and was a member of the class of 1991. During his high school years, he was a proud member of the marching band, showcasing his passion for music. His love for music was more than a hobby - it was a lifelong passion that brought joy to those around him. Chris was an active member of Victory Temple, where he loved fellowshipping and servicing the church family, under Pastor Ella Purnell.
Chris had a wide range of interests and talents. He loved fishing, finding peace and adventure on the water. A proud Dallas Cowboys fan, he especially enjoyed watching games with his late father, creating cherished memories. Chris dedicated his time to helping seniors and cooking for the ministry. Dancing was another of his many passions. He was one of the best, as he'd often proclaim, and his favorite dance, the "BUNNY HOP", was a joyful display of his outgoing personality and zest for life.
A skilled chef and entrepreneur, Chris found his calling in the culinary arts. He began his career path in the culinary arena in the beach resort area of Rehoboth, DE. Rusty Rudder, Timothy's Restaurant, and other locations are where Chris began his steps to being a cook and chef, as well as making long lasting friendships and relationships with many people and organizations. He also honed his craft as a Sous Chef at Celebrations on Market, working alongside his brother, Owner and Chef Tony. Chris' work ethic, creativity and dedication to his craft earned him admiration and respect. With his loving and supportive wife beside him, Chris created his own catering company - Simply Comfort Foods - one of his proudest accomplishments. At the time of his passing, he was employed with Tidal Health – Cura Hospitality and made a huge impact on his co-workers in a short period of time. Chris always aimed to please the hearts of his customers, friends and family through his cooking and service!
In November 2022, Christopher Williams married the love of his life, the former Danielle Purnell and from their union, a blended family of unconditional love was born to (11) children. Chris loved and adored his beautiful wife, Danielle wholeheartedly, and would always let his love for her be known to everyone he met. Whenever Chris and Danielle showed up for special events, they would always arrive color-coordinated and dressed to impress. He was a devoted family man who was always encouraging and supporting his family.
Chris was preceded in death by his father, Apostle Dr. Leon Williams, mother, Bishop Ethel Williams, brother Kent Williams and sister, Lynnette Williams-Briggs.
Chris is survived by his beloved wife, Danielle Purnell-Williams; his cherished children: Christiana Handy of Seaford, DE, Kimani Deshields-Williams of Middletown, DE, J'Nea Jenkins of Wilmington, DE, Xavier Williams, Jayla Williams both of Milton, DE, and Darryian Warrington of Milford, DE; children of union and love; MyKeal Purnell (Chaunte') of Seaford, DE, Raheem Deputy of Laurel, DE, Lyn Deputy of Salisbury, MD, Tyjuan Purnell (Kashaira), Greensboro, NC and Jasmine Deputy of Seaford, DE; 3 God-children: Tasha Applewhite, Monica Giddens and Kylar Harris and 15 Grandchildren.
He is also survived by 11 loving brothers and sisters, who will always remember his humor, warmth, and boundless love. Debra Williams-Fletcher (James) of Lorton, VA; Mark Antony Williams, New Castle, DE; Angelia Cannon, Bridgeville, DE; Nikola Williams, Bear, DE; Charles Williams, (Elissa), Redding, CT; Christina Stevenson (Devvery), Delmar, DE; Sonya Williams, Bear, DE; Timothy Williams, Rehoboth, DE; Leron Williams, Seaford, DE; Belisha Bessicks, (William), Jeremy Williams, Seaford, DE; Edna Mann, Aunt who he called his second mom, Mother - in law, Ella Purnell of Bridgeville, DE, 7 brothers and sisters in-law Dawn Sykes of Wilmington, DE, Quinton Sykes of Bridgeville, DE, Tyrence Purnell (Latoria) of Smyrna, DE, Eunice Purnell King (Vaughn) of Harrington, DE, Joan Hicks of Laurel, DE and a host of relatives and friends that Christopher loved very dearly.
Christopher's life was a testament to living fully, loving deeply, and spreading joy wherever he went. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten. He leaves a legacy of love, kindness, charisma, and service to others that will forever be the memory with his name. Fly high Christopher Williams! Your light will always shine bright here with us, forever and always.