Eric Kevin Williams, 61, passed away on Tuesday, December 31, 2024, in Bradenton, Florida. He was born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa to Gale Norman Williams and Barbara June Dennis and was raised in Illinois. He graduated high school from Bible Haven in Mt. Vernon, IL and went on to earn a Doctorate of Ministry - Pastoral Leadership at Andersonville Theological Seminary.
Eric is survived by his three daughters Rebeccah (Christopher) McConnaughay of Mt Vernon, IL, Erica Williams of Affton, MO, and Taylor Williams of Texico, IL as well as five sons, Kevin Williams of Rock Hill, MO, Dylan Williams of Wayne City, IL, DeMarvia Williams of Chicago, IL, Zadyn Williams of Mt. Vernon, and Earl Williams of Texico, IL. and his six granddaughters and two grandsons. Also surviving is his mother, Barbara Dennis Newcomb, and his three brothers Terry (Lisa Ranalli) Williams of Meridian, ID, Timothy Williams of Wister, OK, and Aaron (Amanda) Williams of Corona, CA. He is also survived by his ex-wife Leslie Dunn of Texico, IL, as well as other family members.
Eric loved watching St. Louis Cardinals baseball and University of Kentucky basketball, which is a pass time he shared with his children. He loved singing, making up songs, and writing stories which he had published as children's books.
Eric spent most of his life as a computer technician as well as a Southern Baptist minister. Ministry and service to others was a main focus in his life, from the time he joined the ministry as a young adult at Bible Haven Church through service as a hospice chaplain much later in life, where he touched many lives of those who were passing as well as their loved ones.
Eric proudly served in the United States Navy, like his father before him.
Eric was preceded in death by his wife Carol Williams, father Gale N. Williams, brother Todd S. Williams, and nephews Christopher S. Williams, and Nathan Williams.
Eric's wishes were to be cremated, and his ashes spread at sea.
There will be a celebration of life ceremony on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Mt. Vernon Baptist Temple in Mt. Vernon, IL. If desired, memorial donations in Eric's memory may be directed to Mt. Vernon Baptist Temple (https://www.mtvbaptisttemple.com).
Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd Street West, Bradenton, FL 34209, is in charge of arrangements.
