Loyce L. Williams

Loyce Lee Williams was born on August 12, 1953, i n Hughes, Arkansas, to J . Lee and

Dorothy Mae Williams, both o f whom preceded him in death. From that union, he i s

survived b y his big brother, J . Lee Williams (Theresa) o f Richton Park, Illinois, who now

mourns his passing.

Loyce was known for his kind heart, sharp wit, mischievous humor, and natural

popularity as a proud member o f the Lee County High School Class of 1971. His legacy is

one o f laughter, adventure, curiosity, and growth-always encouraging others to try

new things, learn from life, and evolve into the best version o f themselves. Many o f his

most exhilarating stories may never be spoken aloud, yet they remain etched in our

minds forever.

One o f Loyce's greatest blessings was his daughter, Nina, whom h e affectionately called

"Love Child - Nina Ross." To him, the name reflected that she was conceived in love, and

"Ross" was a lighthearted reference to the legendary Diana Ross, as he believed n o one

could compare t o her. Nina was welcomed with open arms b y his grandparents, Mrs.

Senora and Mr. Phillip, who showered her with love and encouragement. They

reminded Loyce of the importance of caring for his daughter, a responsibility he

embraced wholeheartedly. The bond they developed grew strong and enduring,

remaining unbroken until his final breath o n this side of heaven.

Loyce loved people deeply, whether that love was returned o r not. H e never met a

stranger, and he never left a room the same way he entered it. He cherished lifelong

friendships with Joe Hamilton, Robert Hardy, and John Bright, along with many other

friends and classmates.

Loyce is the first of his nine siblings t o join their mother in heaven, and his absence

leaves a profound void in their lives. The sibling chain i s forever altered for the

remaining eight siblings.

He leaves behind one uncle, Hezekiah Joshua; one aunt, Roydell Hatchet (Willie); a host

o f nieces, nephews, cousins; and "The Leo cousins," who will forever treasure the unique

memories o f their shared "Leo Season," a connection that i s truly unique. Loyce held a

special place in his heart for his Swanson Cousins and enjoyed their fellowship.

Loyce's presence-his smiles, his jolly facial expressions, his hugs, his love, and even the

tough moments-will b e deeply missed by his daughter Nina and her husband Joseph

Dean, along with their four sons and two grandchildren, all of whom lovingly attended

to his needs and recognized him as a man worth celebrating.

Loyce often expressed deep gratitude for the intimate family moments that shaped his

later years: trimming the family tree, spending time together, taking vacations, and

cheering a t practices and games for his grandsons-whether i n the sun o r the rain.

These memories now stand as cherished reminders of the love he gave so freely.