Wiley Edward Williams

Wiley Edward Williams passed on from this mortal life on September 7, 2021 in Gadsden Alabama at the age of 86. He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Bonnie Ellen Thacker Brainard, as well as two daughters Darlene (Phil) De Aguilera of Gadsden Alabama, Sybil (Jeff) Ragsdale of Camphill Alabama, two sons, Timothy Williams of Gadsden Alabama, and Johnny (Michelle) Williams of Attalla Alabama, twenty one grandchildren, twenty nine great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild, and one very old tortoise named Speedy Gonzales. He is preceded in death by by his parents Mark and Claudia Johnson Williams, and one son Ronald Williams.

Wiley was Born October 17, 1934, in Boaz Alabama to parents Mark and Claudia. He married his childhood sweetheart Bonnie on 12 Feb 1951. Wiley attended East Gadsden Trade School and worked as a machinist for various companies in both Alabama and Wisconsin. Over the years, Bonnie and Wiley welcomed five children and numerous grandchildren into their home. He is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. His children and grandchildren will remember him as a beloved patriarch who has a strong testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ and of the power of priesthood blessings. Wiley loved reading the scriptures and studying their words. He loved his family, church friends, and all his fellow men, except for lying politicians for whom he reserved a special beating stick. He took his role as a home teacher seriously and showed such love and concern for the welfare of others, always ready to lend service in any way possible. He maintained the LDS church building for many years and was known as the man who could answer the questions when no one else could. He was also the person you consult if you are wondering what kind of car or gun to buy. Wiley enjoyed bartering and selling things over the radio and was very talented at turning a profit on even the most mundane little odds and ends. He was a prodigious storyteller and always kept his grand kids laughing. He kept a garden and raised animals his entire life including rabbits, chickens, goats, a pony, frogs, a tortoise, homing pigeons, and his beloved dog Champ. He will be missed enormously by all who knew and loved him, and they look forward to seeing him again on the other side.

The funeral is scheduled for September 11, 2021 at 11:30 am at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 2001 Noccalula Road, Gadsden Al. Bishop Kimball will officiate, Bishop Rogers will be presiding. All are welcome to attend this celebration of Wiley's life. Pall bearers will be Scott Lowrey, Dale Lowrey, Mason Lowrey, Thomas Williams, Nicolas Williams, Enrique Williams, Nathaniel Nutile and Landon Shumway.