Edward A. Williams, Sr.

Edward A. Williams, Sr., 88, Junction City, Kansas died Wednesday, January 8, 2025 at Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan, Kansas. 

A funeral service will take place at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, January 14, 2025 at New Church of the Living God with Bishop James E. Johnson officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the funeral at the church. Burial will follow the service at Kansas Veterans' Cemetery with military honors.

Edward A. Williams Sr. was born on August 17, 1936, the precious and only child to Goldia L. Butts and Emanuel Williams in Linden, Alabama.

Edward’s mother moved to New Orleans, Louisiana later where he completed most of his education excelling in everything, as well as showing talent in football. His mother said his favorite toy was his fire truck that he could ride and spray water! Little did he know that one day his own son would be one of those honored firemen serving the public as well as his own public service down the road. His ambitions were to travel, which inspired him to join the Army. In his mother’s words, “He wanted to see the World!” He went to basic training in Arkansas and military camp, police school in Fort Gordon, Georgia. Then stationed at Fort Riley Army Post and settled in Junction City, Kansas. His hobbies were enjoying movies, painting, carpentry work and fixing everything!

Edward accepted Christ and was baptized at a young age. His signature smile, bubbly personality, and love for people was exemplary of the spirit within.

Edward met his bride, Cynthia S. Hudley. They were married, February 18, 1962, at Fort Riley Main Post Chapel and settled in Junction City. They raised four children providing the best of God’s love, opportunities and support that they could give. First and most important was showing the way, Proverbs 22:6, Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it. They took their children to Sunday School, participated in Christian events that would direct the path according to His Word. They attended New Church of the Living God, under the leadership of Bishop James E. Johnson and Sister Alice Johnson. He served on the Usher Board and participated in anything he could assist with.

Edward’s military career, he worked in the Stockade, transporting prisoners and as a mail clerk. He retired with an honorable discharge on February 23, 1962, from 207th Military Police Company. He settled with Cynthia in Junction City where he worked at Montgomery Wards in sales. There he had wonderful relationships with co-workers and customers that spoke very highly of him. He was very dedicated and as a top salesman at his store, earned the opportunity to visit the manufacturing plants in Japan. He later retired on April 2, 1987, after 25 years of loyal service.

Edward leaves to cherish the memories of his life, his loving wife Cynthia S. Williams. Daughters: Rhonda Hollins (David Sr.) of Houston, TX and Michelle Williams of Orlando, FL. Sons: Edward Williams, Jr. (Deceased) and Michael Williams of West Des Moines, IA. Grandchildren: David Hollins, Jr., Tiffany Hollins, Chanel Fisher, Jazmin Miller, Michael Williams, Jr. and Anthony Freeman, Jr. Great-Grandchildren: Tomorrow Hollins, David James Hollins, Serenity Fisher and Davilyn Hollins, and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his Mother, Goldia L. Butts and Son, Edward A. Williams, Jr.

A heart like yours is rare, one that’s so generous, smart, and kind. You never met a stranger.

A heart like yours is what the world needs, sharing a wonderful smile, laughter, and always doing great deeds! 

Forever Remembered & Loved!