Sergeant Major William Joseph "Joe" Williams

Sergeant Major William Joseph “Joe” Williams, born September 29, 1947, in Billingsley, Alabama, passed away on September 23, 2026. He lived a life marked by steadfast service, deep compassion, and devotion to the people and communities he loved.

Mr. Williams served his country with remarkable dedication. He served in the United States Army and later retired from the Alabama Army National Guard after many years of service. Over the course of more than 40 years in the military, he built a legacy of commitment and duty that remained a defining part of his life. He was also a member of the Military Order of the Purple Heart. Among the bonds he treasured most were those formed in service, and he especially enjoyed spending time with his Vietnam buddies of B Troop, 3rd Squadron, 4th Cavalry, 25th Infantry Division. He was thrilled to deploy to Iraqi Freedom with his beloved soldiers of the 231st MP Battalion.

Beyond his military life, he was a man of warm spirit and generous heart, remembered as a very sweet and very compassionate person. He was a member of the First Methodist Church of Tallassee, where faith was part of the fabric of his daily life. He also gave of himself in civic life as a Past District Governor of the Lions Club. In quieter moments, he enjoyed Sudoku puzzles and Wheel of Fortune, simple pleasures that brought him happiness.

He is survived by his wife, Linda Huey Williams, his beloved partner for over forty years. He also leaves behind his son, William Joseph Williams, Jr. and his wife, Gina; his daughter, Amelia Lazette Carpenter and her husband, Patrick; his brothers, Henry Williams and his wife, Elsie, and George Williams and his wife, Diane. His memory will also be cherished by his grandchildren, Sarah Williams, Conner Williams, Joseph Carpenter, Adelaide Lazette Carpenter, and Thomas Carpenter and several Nieces and Nephews. Surrounded by this loving family, his life’s influence continues in the generations that follow him.

He is preceded in death by his father, Ira Lee Williams; his mother, Verma Lazette Jackson Williams; and his siblings, James Bracken, Elsie Weldon, Chester Williams, Lazette Taylor, and Ruby DeRamus. Their memories remained part of the story of his life, and now he is reunited with them.

Interment will be conducted at Rose Hill Cemetery, accompanied by military funeral honors.

William Joseph Williams will be remembered for the strength of his service, the kindness of his nature, and the enduring love he gave to family, friends, fellow soldiers, and community. His life leaves a lasting and honorable memory.

The family will receive friends Wednesday, September 30, 2026, from 10:00AM until service time at 11:00AM at First Methodist Church of Tallassee. Burial will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery with full military honors, Rev. Clint McBroom officiating, Jeffcoat Funeral Home directing.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the First Methodist Church of Tallassee, 1 Jordan Avenue, Tallassee, Alabama 36078 or to the Ivy Creek Methodist Church Cemetery Fund, 3068 Hwy 14 West, Autaugaville, Alabama 36003