Ralph Lane Williams

MACON - Ralph Lane Williams, 93, died peacefully on Wednesday night, February 2, 2011. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 AM Monday, February 7, 2011 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church with Father Allan McDonald and Father Justin Ferguson officiating. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery. A Rosary will be said at 6:00 PM Sunday at Snow’s Memorial Chapel, Cherry Street.

Born November 10, 1917 in Macon, Georgia, he was the son of the late Franklin Leland Williams and Annie Gray Branam of Macon.

He attended Bibb County Schools, graduated from Lanier Senior in 1936, and joined the U.S. Marine Corps after high school. Mr. Williams served in the Pacific Theater in World War II with the 4th Marine Division, 23rd Marines. After returning to Macon, he continued his military service with the Georgia National Guard, Headquarters Company, 121st Infantry Regiment, 48th Division. He completed 22 years of military service, attaining the rank of Lt. Colonel.

He was employed with the Macon Telegraph and News for 25 years, in which time he served as Advertising Manager. He was President of the Macon Lions Club, 1963-1964.

Mr. Williams was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, and a past Knights of Columbus member.

Mr. Williams had nine hobbies: his wife, Elizabeth Catherine (Bette) Williams, his seven children, and his Church.

Survivors include his wife of 70 years, Bette Williams, of Macon; his children, Lane, Jr. and wife Kathy of Evans; Carl Williams and wife Shirley of Fayetteville; Donald Williams of Macon; Kathleen Pearce and husband John of Macon; Elizabeth Williams and husband Barry Heffernan of Griffin; Cecelia Williams and John McElrath, III of Macon; Regina Campbell and husband J. of Albany; six grandchildren, John Michael Pearce, Elizabeth Burris (husband-James), Matthew Williams, Joshua Williams, Alexandra Campbell, Jacob Campbell; and one great-grandchild, Abby Burris.

The family wishes to express deep gratitude to all the care-givers and especially for the services provided by Heartland Hospice of Macon.

Visit www.snowsmacon.com to express tributes.

Snow’s Memorial Chapel Funeral & Cremation Services, Cherry Street, has charge of arrangements.