Howard Williams

Howard Everette Williams passed away peacefully on October 18, 2025 at the age of 85 surrounded by loved ones at home.

He was born on December 29, 1939 to Mary Frances Edwards and Otis Williams in Southampton County, Virginia.

Howard was a Pipe Fitter in department X11 at Newport News Shipbuilding for twenty-six years until his retirement in 1998.

Howard married Joyce Williams, his devoted spouse, on May 31, 1969.

As a lover of Blues music, Howard enjoyed playing the guitar with his brothers. Howard also enjoyed fishing, working on his cars, and helping others in need with no questions asked. He also enjoyed family gatherings.

Howard was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Otis Williams and Moses Sykes and sisters Violet Rogers, Annie Lee Harrison and Lillie Mae Lloyd.

Howard is survived by his spouse of fifty-six years Joyce Williams; sister Francis Rogers (Ezekiel Rogers); children Karen Edwards (Rufus Edwards, Jr.) and Alice Pope; Tanisha King (Ryan King) and Tia Edwards-Galloway (Demetrius Galloway) and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

On Thursday, October 23, 2025, Viewing will take place from 4-6pm at Shivers Funeral Chapel. At 11am on Friday, October 24, 2025, a Celebration of Life will also be held at the Chapel. Please keep the Williams family in your thoughts and prayers.