Ross Williams

COOKEVILLE CHAPEL - Ross E. Williams, a cherished husband, father, brother, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away December 14,2024, at the Overton County & Rehab Center. Born on January 9, 1924, in Putnam County, TN, Ross was a remarkable individual who lived a life rich in love, devotion, and hard work.

A veteran of the United States Army, Ross served diligently during World War II, earning both the Purple Heart and Bronze Star for his bravery and sacrifice. His service to his country was one of his proudest accomplishments, alongside the profound love he shared with his family. Ross was devoted to his family, particularly to his dear wife, Earlene Brown Williams, with whom he shared a beautiful marriage lasting 73 years. Their bond began with a first date at the former Princess Theatre in Cookeville, and together they created a lifetime of cherished memories until her passing in September 2020.

Ross was retired from Tennessee Carolina Transport. He was also passionate about farming, spending countless hours plowing gardens and bush hogging all over the Algood area.

Raised in a large family as the fourth of seven children, Ross possessed a delightful personality marked by a sharp wit and a wonderful sense of humor. He was not only a devoted family man but also a cherished member of his community. He was elected as a Putnam County Trustee in 1947 and served a four year term.

His faith played a significant role in his life as well. Ross was devoted to his church, Algood United Methodist Church, where he found purpose and connection with others in his community. He showed immense dedication to those around him, always ready to lend a helping hand or share a story. He loved gathering with friends at the Algood McDonald's, where mornings were filled with laughter and camaraderie. 

Ross is survived by his son, Roger Williams of Algood; daughter Nancy (Lester) Jackson of Knoxville; brother Marion Williams of Signal Mountain, TN; grandchildren Trent (Jill) Williams, Shay (Tiffani) Williams, Stacey (Casey) Blackmon, Adam Jackson, and Susan Seabold; as well as twelve great-grandchildren, including Addie (Spencer) Wright, Emma Williams, Molly Ross Williams, Haden Williams, Cohen Williams, Brody Blackmon, Easton Blackmon, Isla Seabold, Gretchen Seabold, Abram Seabold, Landon Jackson, and Beckett Jackson. He is also remembered fondly by his special niece and caretaker, Joyce Swallows of Cookeville.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Burr and Sallie Randolph Williams; his beloved wife, Earlene Brown Williams; and siblings Dora Jane Swallows, Dow Williams, Cleta Gill, Ellen Puckett, and Helen Sloan.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, December 19th at 11:00 a.m. at the Cookeville chapel of Hooper, Huddleston & Horner Funeral Home. Interment with military honors will follow at Crest Lawn Cemetery. Pastor Tim Miles will officiate. His family will receive friends Wednesday evening from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. and again Thursday morning from 9:00 a.m. until service time at the funeral home.

Lester Jackson, Trent Williams, Shay Williams, Adam Jackson, Casey Blackmon, Haden Williams, Cohen Williams, Donald Thrasher and Nolan Goolsby will serve as pallbearers.

Memorial contributions are suggested to be made to Algood United Methodist Church, 135 W Main St, Algood, TN 38506.

Hooper, Huddleston & Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111. Share memories and condolences at www.hhhfunerals.com.