Jesse Williams

Today, we gather to honor the life of a remarkable man—our beloved father, husband, son, uncle, brother, and friend, Jesse G. Williams. A man whose presence was both gentle and strong, whose heart was vast, and whose legacy is written not just in memories, but in the lives he touched so deeply.

Born on May 2, 1948, to George and Marie Williams, Jesse was the youngest of the family at the time. He would later become a big brother himself, helping form a close-knit family held together by love and laughter. His mother, affectionately known as Mama-Rie, often told stories of gathering her children, counting them o+ one by one—*“1, 2, 3, 4, 5… 6”—*a sweet reminder of her care and Jesse’s place in her heart. At just six years old, Jesse was relocated from the South to the Midwest, a change that brought new beginnings and shaped the man he would become.

Through every season of his life, Jesse carried himself with quiet strength, humility, and an unmistakable kindness that made people feel seen and cared for. Jesse was known for many things—but to those closest to him, he was simply a good man. The kind of man who kept his word, gave generously, and always made time for his loved ones. He would say, with a big smile, “Uncle Jesse will come and get you and take you out to the ballpark!” a promise as dependable as the sunrise. Jesse’s love for sports was unmatched. He didn’t just watch the games he lived them. A dedicated fan of the Chicago Bears, Atlanta Hawks, and most of all, the Chicago Cubs, he carried his teams with pride. But he didn’t stop at being a fan. He coached softball, umpired, led bowling leagues, and served as Captain of his bowling team for over 30 years. In sports, Jesse found joy, connection, and purpose—and he shared that joy with his children, grandchildren, and community. 

Jesse was also a gifted craftsman. Known as “Jess” in the RV industry, he was an accomplished SawMan in Elkhart, respected for his skill and work ethic. His natural way with numbers, lovingly teased by his daughter Raquel, hinted that maybe he missed his calling as an accountant. But Jesse’s dream was different—he longed to open a restaurant. And in a beautiful fulfillment of that dream, he lived to see a family restaurant created. A place, filled with love, laughter, and legacy—where his spirit now lives on.

When the EMT announced Jesse’s transition, the time was recorded as 10:22 A.M—the same numbers as the address of the family restaurant, 1022. To the family, this was no coincidence. It was confirmation. Confirmation of God’s glory, and a divine reassurance that Jesse’s journey had come full circle.

He was a proud and patient father to Corey Williams, Raquel (Alan) Hoyt, Charlotte (Phillip) Pettis, Davetta (DeWayne) Watson, and Demond (London) Cooper. In them, his values live on. Jesse’s legacy continues through his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who will forever carry stories of his warmth, wisdom, and sense of humor. In 1992, Jesse married the love of his life, Ora Williams. Their union was full of shared joys—Bingo nights, bowling tournaments, family barbecues, and evenings at Callahan’s. Together, they built a home where love and laughter always had a seat at the table.

Jesse was preceded in death by his parents George and Marie Williams; his brother George Jr.; and sisters Cora, Rosalie, Rosene, and Lorene. He is survived by his siblings Joe Michael Williams, Barbara Kemp, and Celia Danner, and a host of nieces and nephews who each carry their own special memories of Uncle Jesse. In his later years, Jesse’s spiritual life deepened. He was baptized at Canaan Baptist Church, and though his health began to challenge him, his faith remained strong. He cherished the home visits from Pastor Stewart, who would pray with him, read scripture, and always take time to watch sports together just as Jesse liked it. 

This farewell is not the end of Jesse's story, it is continuation of his spirit, which lives on through every Cub's game watched, every bowling lane bowled, every family story retold. His was a life well lived and deeply loved.  

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Jesse Williams, please visit our floral store.