Joseph "Joe" Williams

Joseph “Joe” Williams, 81, passed away peacefully on December 8, 2025, at his home in Lafitte, Louisiana, surrounded by the love of his family. A true Lafitte native, Joe was born on December 27, 1943, and spent his entire life along the bayou he cherished so deeply.

He is survived by his son, Mack Williams (Crystal); his stepchildren Mary Trimm (Robert), Joey Walden, Melissa Wiggins (Brandon), Benjamin Cothran (Karen), and Lamont Decol; and his many nieces and nephews. He was the cherished grandfather of Gavin Beard, Ryley Carlock, Brennan Carlock, Hunter Williams, and Gracie Williams, each of whom adored him deeply. Step grandfather to Garrett and Gauge Wiggins, Katie Decol, Erin Champagne (Grant), Jenna Hull, Jonathan Hull, Raven, Damon, and Lily Walden, and his brother Joseph W. Trosclair (Patsy).

Joe is preceded in death by his first wife, Shirley Williams and second wife, Catherine Williams; his mother, Eve Williams; and his brother, Lawrence Williams.

At just four years old, Joe experienced the heartbreaking loss of his mother, Eve Williams, who passed away at only 18. He was lovingly raised by the late Albert Trosclair (Lucille) and the late Eva Camardelle (Edward), who helped shape the hardworking, kindhearted man he became.

A commercial fisherman for many years, Joe lived a life defined by honesty, grit, and a love for the water. His grandchildren proudly declared him “the best pancake maker that ever lived,” and anyone who knew Joe would agree he never did anything halfway.

Joe’s hands were rarely still—he was always working on something, whether building a boat, fixing a trawl net, or creating a new “to-do list” for Mack that somehow covered the next two weeks and then magically grew longer by the hour. His family lovingly jokes that Joe could outwork most 20-year-olds, and even after losing a leg, he never slowed down. Nothing kept him from living life fully.

He loved the outdoors—hunting, fishing, and making memories at the hunting camp with his son and grandchildren. The bayou was his happy place, his sanctuary, and the heart of his stories, friendships, and adventures. Joe never met a stranger. He could make a friend anywhere he went and always had a funny tale ready to share. His smile, even in tough times, was steady and strong.

To our wonderful family—Bush “Cuz,” Ted Williams, and Melissa and Brandon Wiggins—thank you for your unwavering support, open hearts, and listening ears. Your presence was a true blessing and a source of strength during this difficult time.

Joe’s sun rose and set with his son, Mack. Their bond was one that shaped Joe’s world and gave him purpose, pride, and joy every single day.

You may be gone from our sight, but you will never be gone from our hearts.

Family and friends are invited to attend the visitation for Joe on Monday, December 15, 2025 beginning at 10:00 AM until 12:00 PM at St. Anthony Catholic Church, 2653 Jean Lafitte Blvd in Lafitte. Funeral Mass will begin at 12:00 PM and burial will immediately follow at Fleming Cemetery in Lafitte.

In Lieu of Flowers the family requests that donations be made to: Lighthouse for the Blind, 123 State Street, New Orleans, LA 70118

“A man of the bayou, a maker of memories, and the best pancake cook his grandkids ever knew.”