Obituary published on Legacy.com by Watkins Heritage Chapel - Kansas City on Jul. 15, 2025.
Samuel Houston Williams Jr. was born in
Kansas City, MO. on October 17, 1926. He was the third child of eight children born to Samuel Houston Williams and Aurelia Corbrey. He precedes all in death, except one sister, Barbara Hall.
Samuel attended R. T. Coles High School and graduated in 1944.
Nicknamed, "Sam" lived a long and fulfilling life marked by dedication to his family and his faith. He was a proud retiree of General Motors, where he worked diligently for 32 years before returning to work for another decade-a true testament to his incredible work ethic and generous spirit.
Samuel was a soldier for the Lord, Jesus Christ. He was extremely knowledgeable about the bible and along with his best friend, Dale Redding became a great scholar. He became a member of St. John M.B. Church in 1950 and was a dedicated and loyal member to the church he adored. He worked tirelessly as the Superintendent and caretaker for the church, and he served faithfully as a deacon for 70 years under Rev. L. W. McCormick and Rev. Thomas F. McCormick as his right hand man, both as their confidant and friend, a role he cherished and fulfilled with grace, wisdom, and compassion. His unwavering faith and commitment to service left a lasting impact on his church family and his community.
. He would read scriptures with much enthusiasm and sang in the choir with an astonishing voice.
He received many awards including Faithful Servant and Faithful Dedication.
If a pattern was cut out for how life should be lived it was Samuel. He was the ambassador of GOD and truly an inspiration for all.
He would say "The best thing I have ever done was marry the love of his life, Zelma" who he shared an amazing 73 years in love with. Sam and Zelma shared a bond that was evident to anyone who knew them-He was clearly the joy of her heart, and the two never stopped calling each other "Honey". A sweet nickname that reflected their lifelong affection and deep connection.
Sam was a man of many passions. He loved bowling, playing badminton and family dinners and in quieter moments, he found joy in drawing and writing poetry. His creativity and sense of humor brightened the lives of everyone around him. Always quick with a joke or a story, he brought laughter and light wherever he went with a smile that would warm your heart.
Samuel passed away peacefully to glory at his home to forever be with his Lord and Saviour, Wednesday morning on July 9, 2025, at the age of 98.
Samuel shared a close and loving bond with his son, Roddy W. Williams. More than just Father and son, they were true companions in life-sharing laughs, life lessons and a deep mutual respect. They especially loved watching baseball and football together, creating memories in the simple joy of the game. Samuel was also deeply grateful for Roddy's wife, Linda Escareno-Williams, who lovingly cared for him in later years with great compassion and tenderness.
Samuel, a loving and devoted husband, Father, Grandfather and Great-Grandfather and friend
was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Zelma O. Williams. He is lovingly remembered by his devoted son, Roddy W. Williams and his daughter in love, Linda Escareno-Williams, His Grandchildren, Vicenta C. Williams, Sparkle O. Williams and Heaven'Lee C. Williams, His two great-grandsons, RaLen G. Hardin II and Elijah C. Williams.
He will be deeply missed by his loving family, cherished friends and all whose lives were brightened by his presence-a gentle soul whose memory will be a lasting light in the lives he touched.
Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, July 19, 2025, 10am at St. John MBC 5906 Kenwood Ave KCMO 64110. Interment will be held Monday, July 21, 2025, at 10am Leavenworth Nat'l Cemetery, LVNKS. Visitation from 8am-10am at the church. Service conducted by Watkins Heritage Chapel. Condolences may be shared on our website.