Oscar Lavonia Williams

Oscar Lavonia Williams, Jr., 86, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, passed away at his home on February 22, 2024, after a lengthy illness and following a beautiful journey transitioning to heaven. His family is profoundly saddened but thankful to God for his exemplary life.

Oscar was born on September 25, 1937, to Oscar Lavonia Williams, Sr. and his wife Elsie Fowler Williams in Natchez, Mississippi. Because his mother died shortly after his birth, he was lovingly cared for by his grandparents, Emmanuel and Laura Fowler, and his aunts and uncles.

He attended Prince Street and Brumfield Elementary schools and was a graduate of Sadie V. Thompson High School, Class of 1955. At Thompson, he was a class leader, serving as Senior Class President. He was a model student with great interest in science, playing trumpet in the school band, and singing in the glee club.

After high school he graduated from Southern University, where he received a Bachelor of Science degree in Music. While at Southern, Oscar was a member of the Southern University Marching Band, the Symphonic Band, and a member of the ROTC Band. He was a devoted and talented musician, choosing the clarinet as his major instrument. Committed to life-long learning, he continued his studies at Louisiana State University receiving both his master’s degree and PhD. He did further studies at Indiana University in History and Music Psychology.

Oscar was an exemplary husband, father, grandfather, and human being. He embodied the best qualities: unconditional love, strength of spirit and an unending generosity in his association with his students, neighbors, extended family, and friends.

He is survived by his devoted wife and caregiver of 63 years, Theta Martinez Williams; his daughters Anrea Williams and Tia Williams Edwards; grands, Austin Sean Thomas (Farrah), Jordan Jude Thomas, Avery Justin English (Katelin), Blaine Oscar Edwards, and Bryce James Edwards. He was blessed with three great grands, Aiden Jace English, Charlie Jade Thomas, and Benjamin James English. Oscar is also survived by his brothers-in-law Myrnard (Marty) Martinez (Elizabeth) and Aurelius Martinez (Zeno); nephew Manuel Martinez (Becky); nieces Denise Martinez, Adele Martinez and Lisa Martinez (Aman); cousins Audrey Fowler Martin, Errol Martin (Mandy), Lauren Martin Carter (Kerry), Eric Fowler (Phillis), and Mattiel Watson Brooks. Especially dear to him were Dr. Mark and Carole Robinson, Dr. C. Norman St. Amant, Jr., Dr. Erma W. Hines; Godson, Dr. Clifton Robinson and Goddaughter to Kimberly Pappilion.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Oscar Lavonia Williams, Sr. and Elsie Fowler Williams, stepmother Gladys Fowler Williams, in-laws, Frank and Myrtle Martinez; grandparents, Emmanuel and Laura Fowler, and Stella Nathers Bell; uncles Emmanuel Fowler, Jr., Morrill Fowler, Sidney Fowler; aunts, Alva Fowler Gordon, Mary Allen Fowler, Essie Fowler, Ernestine Fowler, Ethel Williams Shaw, Mattiel Fowler Watson; cousin Addis Watson, Jr.; sister-in-law, Laverne Martinez Mayfield and brothers-in-law, Frank Jr., and Damian Martinez; and Godson, Norman Jude St. Amant.

His departure comes as a great shock and a deep wound, and it is gravely felt by his entire family and countless others who loved him deeply in his wide network of community. The family deeply appreciates your support during this difficult time.

Celebration of Life and Legacy Memorial Mass will be at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 1565 Curtis Street, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70807, on March 9, 2024, at 11:00 AM. Repast immediately following in the Parish Hall.