Parsons Hand Family Reunion August 8-10, 2025

William Louis Williams, affectionately known as "Bill," was born on February 6, 1930, in Shubuta, Mississippi, Bill was the eldest child of the late Harry and Marylena (Parsons) Woods. He was a cherished brother to Otis Williams, L J Williams, Ruth Laverne Morris, Milton Williams-Hughes, Alberta Theresa Latimer, Herbert Hughes, George Garret, Donna Turner, and Robert Blackwell.

As a young child, Bill relocated with his family to Albany, New York, where he became part of The Historic Rapp Road Community, an African American settlement founded during the Great Migration with the help of his uncle, Louie Parsons. This thriving community was rich in faith, business, and deep family connections—values that Bill carried throughout his life.

Baptized as a child, Bill reaffirmed his faith in 2021, choosing to be baptized again as an adult. He was a man of quiet strength, deep understanding, and unwavering love for his family. Though reserved, he was always a protector and a guiding presence to those around him.

Bill pursued his education diligently, graduating from a technical school in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1947. A talented athlete, he played football and later continued his studies in business and accounting. His passion for sports led him to play for the Cleveland Buckeyes in the Negro Baseball League, where he received honors and awards for his contributions to the sport. A true baseball enthusiast, he cherished the game throughout his life.

Beyond baseball, Bill loved the racetrack, with the Kentucky Derby being one of his favorite destinations. He took great pride in his work, serving as a Security Manager at the Alex Theater and the Hollywood Park Racetrack—roles that combined his sense of responsibility with his passions.

Bill was an honorary member of The Retired Enlisted Association (TREA) of Aurora, CO, and a proud member of the Park Hill Denver Lions Club in Denver, CO.

He is survived by his loving children: Peter Williams and Gregory Williams both of Cleveland, OH; Darlene J. Williams (Michael Henderson dee) of Aurora, CO; Paulette Williams-Givens (Kenneth) of Aurora, CO; Renee Brandon and Kim Green-Lisinicchia both of Albany, New York; and Donald Glass of New Haven, NY.

Bill was a beloved grandfather to grandchildren: Tarron, Terrence, and Jordan Whittingham; Virgil Anderson, Kaylah Givens, Sable (Tiera) Bates, Tarron Brandon, Mahogany Green-Akita, Cicero Richards, Meiko Jones, Shawnee, Qwende and Jamar Williams.

He was also blessed with great-grandchildren: Bella, Terran, Isiah, Maya, Jaylen, Virtue, Cassius, Leilani, Amani, Virgil III, Saleyia, Elyza, Esco III, Raymeeka, Raymone, Rain, Rayshaunie, Legend and Riley.

He leaves behind cherished relationships with Marilyn Allen of Denver, CO, Richard Parsons of Schenectady, NY, and his goddaughter, Dawn Latimer of Albany, NY; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Bill is preceded in death by his children, Jamal As-Salaam (Billy) and Angela Whittingham (Ronald), and his two grandsons, Dejon Williams and Esco C. Bates, II.

He will forever be remembered for his quiet wisdom, his steadfast love for family, and his signature farewell—

"See you when I see you!"

Rest in peace, Bill. Your legacy lives on in the hearts of those who loved you.