Walter L. Williams

Walter L. Williams, Jr. was born on June 4, 1967, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, to Robbie Jean Thompson and James E. Hale. He passed away on January 7, 2026, in Nashville, Tennessee.
Educated in Hamilton County Schools, Walter graduated from Howard High School in 1985, where he was a proud member of the marching band. It was there that Mr. Sharp recognized his musical talent and brought him to Tennessee State University, where Walter became a member of the legendary Aristocrat of Bands, playing the trumpet with passion and skill. He graduated from Tennessee State University, carrying forward the pride and excellence instilled in him there. Walter accepted Christ at an early age at Shiloh Baptist Church in Chattanooga. Walter's commitment to service extended to his faith community. He worked with the youth ministry at First Baptist Church of South Inglewood. He also worked with the youth and served as a deacon at Immanuel Missionary Baptist Church, and later joined Mt. Zion Baptist Church where he served in many capacities.
Walter dedicated his professional life to serving the Nashville community through the Metro Nashville Police Department for nearly 20 years, where he worked with unwavering commitment until his retirement in 2023 due to illness.
Walter was a man of many interests and talents. He had a love for boxing and served as Assistant Director of the band at Maplewood High School. He was known for his long phone conversations with friends and family. He loved playing the trumpet and singing, especially on Facebook. Walter was his nieces' and nephews' biggest fan, never missing an opportunity to cheer them on at their games. A devoted football enthusiast, he remained loyal to the Tennessee Titans while holding onto his childhood love for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Walter was, above all else, a lover of life. He had an infectious energy that made him the life of every party through his dancing, and he was always ready with financial advice for those who sought his wisdom. His family meant everything to him, and he treasured every moment spent in their company. Walter was preceded in death by parents, Robbie Jean Thompson and James E. Hale; uncle, Charles Thomas, Sr.; brothers, Darren Barksdale and Carey Williams, Sr.; and nephew, MJ Jackson.
Walter leaves to cherish his memory his wife of 38 years, Monique Williams, and daughter, Dr. Tanisha N. Williams. He is also survived by god-daughter, Jazzmin Johnson; siblings, Pamela (Darryll) Rivers, Kevin (Priscilla) Williams, Sr., Kimberly Andrews, and Kelly Hale; mother-in-law, Erlene Weems; father-in-law, Monroe Talley, Jr.; sisters-in-law, Tracy Talley, Sharhonda (Adam) Greene, Roshanda (JoJuantez) Johnson-Gray, and Keisha (Phillip) Marshall; brothers-in-law, Monroe (Janice) Talley, III and Brian Talley; devoted nephew, Darrian (Talysha) Hanna; devoted cousin, Mesha Green; devoted aunt, Helen Thomas; best friends, James Talley and Charles Milligan; and a host of other nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who will forever cherish his memory.