Kerry Glynn Williams

Coach Kerry Glynn Williams, age 81, passed away on Saturday, May 10th, 2025 surrounded by the love of his family. Kerry was a beloved husband of Kathy Sue Williams for over 59 years. He was a cherished father to Kelly (Brian) West, Kevin (Michelle) Williams and Kristy Hawkins. Kerry was a proud and devoted Grandpa (Papa or G-pa) to Kara, Deekota, Brady, Brandon, Brooklyn, Chase, and Regan. He was a Great-Grandpa to Kaden, Gracelin, Karder, Maeve, River and Reign. He would never miss a chance to cheer on his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren at their sporting events or dance recitals.
Kerry was known for his vibrant, competitive and fun-loving spirit. He loved listening to music by many artists, including Chuck Berry, Elvis, and Allan Jackson but he especially loved hearing his favorite (and only) son-in-law, Brian, singing at church. Kerry was also known for his hugs. Everyone he met was his friend and he imprinted his love for people and his love for God everywhere he went.
Kerry was very competitive, to say the least. Whether he was your coach, playing softball for the church league, playing cards, cornhole, bowling or playing pool, he would work hard to win and made you want to work hard to try to beat him (which was hard to do). Kerry was a tough competitor and put that spirit in his kids and grandkids. He will always be remembered as Coach to so very many people, young and old. Kerry's biggest and best legacy will be his warmth, laughter and his unwavering love for his family which will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Kerry battled Parkinson's for over 14 years, but he did not give up without a fight.
Kerry has been met with open arms by his Heavenly father, Jesus, his dad, Dee Frank Williams, his mom, Ollievene, his two brothers, Ronnie and Stanly Williams and his great grandbaby, along with many other family members and friends, where he will no longer be in any pain and is able to sing and praise the Lord.
Kerry was born in Chicago, Illinois on December 30th, 1943. Kerry's family moved to Lansing where he graduated from Eastern High School in 1962. He was then enlisted and served as a medic for the Army in the Vietnam War and was stationed in San Francisco where he lived with his wife, Kathy. When Kerry was honorably discharged, he moved back to Michigan where he started his family.
Kerry was probably one of the biggest Michigan State University sports fans and there was hardly a day that he was not wearing MSU gear so if you can join us in his celebration, wear your green and white!
We will miss you and never forget you, Coach!!
Join the family for a time of remembrance and the Celebration of Kerry's life, on Monday, May 19, 2025, with visitation from 10 - 11 and the service beginning at 11:00 AM at the City Church, 6228 Bishop Road, Lansing, MI 48911, with Pastor Steve Totten & Pastor Danny Stoneham officiating. Interment will follow at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens Cemetery. The family will receive relatives and friends, Sunday, May 18, 2025, from 5-8 PM at the Palmer, Bush & Jensen Family Funeral Home, Holt Chapel. Visitation will continue at the church one hour prior to the service.
"God called your name so softly that only you could hear. And no one heard the footsteps of angels drawing near." Author Unknown.
In memory of Kerry, instead of flowers, donations can be made to Kathy Williams as it would be greatly appreciated to help with the funeral expenses. Thank you!