Preceded in passing by his parents, John Ceasar Williams and Eula Appling (Williams), Bernard Alexander Williams, Sr. affectionately known as Bernie/Granddad/Papu, passed away peacefully in Land O Lakes, Florida, of natural causes, on October 24, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of service, love, faith, and laughter that will be cherished by all who knew him.
Born on April 11, 1941, in Detroit, Michigan, Bernie carried the strength, determination, and resilience of his hometown with him throughout his life. He was a man of steady character and dignity, and those who knew him best will remember his warm smile, his quick wit, and the thoughtful way he approached both life and the people he loved. He was funny, analytical, and loving, a rare combination that made him a source of comfort, wisdom, and joy to his family and friends.
Bernie devoted much of his life to honorable service and meaningful work. He proudly served in the United States Air Force, where he retired as a Senior Master Sergeant, having received a Meritorious Service Medal, a distinction that reflected years of discipline, leadership, and commitment. His military career was followed by his work as a Logistics Engineer for United Space Alliance, where he applied his intelligence and strong work ethic to important and challenging responsibilities. In every role he held, Bernie earned respect not only for his skill, but also for the integrity and calm presence he brought to those around him.
A faithful Christian, Bernie lived his life with a deep sense of purpose and trust in God. His faith was evident in the way he treated others, in the patience he showed, and in the values he passed along to his family. He understood the importance of fellowship, kindness, and perseverance, and he lived those principles in his daily life. His spiritual foundation gave him strength, and it was a source of comfort to those who looked to him for guidance and reassurance.
Bernie also found great joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved basketball and enjoyed coaching, sharing both his knowledge and encouragement with others. He had a gift for drumming and singing in the choir, and music was one of the many ways he expressed his spirit and connected with others. He also enjoyed bowling, a pastime that reflected his love of friendly competition and good company. Whether he was offering advice, sharing a laugh, or spending time with loved ones, Bernie made ordinary moments feel memorable.
He will be deeply missed by his loving family, including: Vanessa Williams (daughter), Je'Neasa Chandrel Jacob (granddaughter) and Nehemiah Kelly; Vanessa Chanel Kelly (great granddaughter); Marshawn Romain Williams (grandson); Julian Steven Williams; Marshawn Romain Williams, Jr.; Kai'on Brandon Jacob Williams; Malakai Elias Williams; Jayceon Zayden Williams; Ja'Sir Sidney Williams; Makayla Rae Williams; JaNeyah Trinette Williams (great grandchildren); Brandon Bernard Williams (grandson) and Courtney Tyler; Maya Anai Williams; Isaiah Ayres Williams (great grandchildren) Roderick Williams (son); Jordan Alexander Williams (grandson) and Samantha Williams; Adalyn, Raeyln, and Evelyn (great granddaughters); Tyanna Leigh Williams-Blake (granddaughter) and Hunter Blake; Natalie and Elijah (great grandchildren); Jayden Alexander Williams (grandson); Braxton Alexander Williams (grandson); Jaxsen Alexander Williams (grandson) Vickey Williams (daughter); Justin Terrell Davis (grandson) and Ericka E. Davis (wife); Winston Alexander Davis; Zoey Ava Davis (great grandchildren) Bernard Alexander Williams, Jr. (son); Gabrielle Melissa Parson (granddaughter); Jayceon Romeo Smith; Jeremiah Lamar Smith (great grandsons); Jamahl Alexander Williams (grandson) Christina Lewis (daughter) and Steven Lewis (son-in-love); Josiah Malkiel Lewis; Caleb Hezekiah Lewis (grandsons)His family was the center of his heart, and his love for them was evident in the pride he took in each of their lives and accomplishments.
Bernie’s life was a testament to dedication, humility, and enduring love. He leaves behind a family strengthened by his example and a community enriched by his presence. His memory will live on in the stories shared at family gatherings, in the lessons he taught, in the music he loved, and in the many lives he touched through his kindness and humor.
As we remember Bernie, we are reminded of the words of Helen Keller, who said, “What we have once enjoyed we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us.” His loved ones will carry his spirit with them always, finding comfort in the lasting imprint he made on their hearts. Bernard Alexander Williams will be remembered with deep affection, great respect, and abiding gratitude for a life well lived. May he rest in eternal peace.
A funeral service will take place at 10:30AM on Thursday, November 5, 2026, at First Baptist Church, Merritt Island, 140 Magnolia Avenue, Merritt Island, FL. 32952. Burial will follow at 1:30PM at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery, 5525 US Highway 1, Mims, FL. 32754.
Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory, 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd Street, Bradenton, Florida, is in charge of funeral arrangements.
