Paul Lawrence Williams

Obituary for Deacon Paul Lawrence Dunbar Williams

Deacon Paul Lawrence Dunbar Williams, age 90, of Alexandria, Louisiana, peacefully entered eternal rest on March 9, 2026, after a life marked by unwavering faith, dedicated service, and deep devotion to his family and community.

Paul was the youngest son born to the late Moses Williams and Irene Williams of Alexandria, Louisiana. He was named after the poet Paul Laurence Dunbar, with whom he shared a birthdate. From an early age, he demonstrated strong character, a joyful spirit, and a commitment to excellence that would define his life. He accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized at Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church.

Paul grew up on Broadway Street in the Lower Third community and attended Peabody Elementary School near his home. It was at Peabody that he met his lifelong friend, Earl J. Cooper. This friendship grew into a brotherhood that both men treasured.

Paul graduated from Peabody High School in Alexandria, where he was widely recognized as an exceptional athlete.

After graduating from high school, Paul attended Leland College in Baker, Louisiana, on a partial football scholarship and with the financial support of his home church, Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church. His remarkable speed and grace on the football field earned him the nickname "Breeze." After obtaining a bachelor's degree in Education from Leland College, Paul answered the call to serve his country in the United States Army, where he served honorably as a medic.

On July 26, 1963, Paul married the love of his life, Juanita Berry, at Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church. Their union produced three children: Paula, Michael, and Laurence. Paul cherished his family. He was a devoted husband of 62 years, a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

Paul began his career in education in the early 1960s and devoted 30 years of distinguished service to the Rapides Parish School System. During his career as an educator and principal, he inspired, guided, and shaped the lives of countless students. His dedication to education and mentorship left a lasting impact on generations of young people in the community.

Beyond his professional career, Paul was a proud and active member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated. Through the fraternity, he provided many years of community service, leadership, and mentorship to young men and community members alike.

Paul's spiritual foundation was central to his life. He loved attending Sunday School and church services every Sunday at Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church in Alexandria, Louisiana, where he remained a faithful and devoted lifelong member. While residing in Huntsville, Alabama, Paul also participated in the Watch Care Ministry at First Missionary Baptist Church.

Paul was also known throughout the community for his commitment to health, discipline, and daily routine. Well into his 90th year, he could often be seen faithfully taking a daily walk. These walks became a familiar sight to many and reflected his belief in caring for both the body and spirit.

Deacon Paul Lawrence Dunbar Williams will be remembered as a man of deep faith, integrity, humility, and service-a man who truly walked with God. His legacy will live on through the many lives he touched, the students he guided, the community he served, and the family he loved so dearly. His life was a testimony of love, patience, and steadfast commitment.

He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Juanita Berry Williams; three children: daughter Paula Cannon-Whiteside (Larry); two sons, Michael Paul Williams (Peggy) and Laurence Dunbar Williams (Kim); five grandchildren: Christopher Cannon (Candace), Jeremy Cannon (Ariell), Michael Williams Jr., Deja Williams, and Nicholas Williams; great-grandchildren: Jayce Cannon, Edyn Cannon, Chloe Cannon, Nolan Williams, and Courtney Cannon; and several nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many friends whose lives were enriched by his presence.