Howard Lee Williams transitioned peacefully into eternal rest on August 12, 2024, at Emory University Hospital, surrounded by his beloved wife, Tasheena, and his children. A true fighter at heart, Howard exemplified resilience and unwavering love, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire his family and all who knew him.
As we celebrate Howard's remarkable life, we are reminded of 2 Timothy 2:3, which states, "Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus." Howard fought valiantly throughout his journey and we find comfort in knowing he now serves in the Lord's army. His readiness to embark on this new adventure reflects his unwavering faith and strength. As a loving member of the Body of Christ through Faith Chapel Community Worship Church, Howard and Tasheena served diligently for the Kingdom of God, making a significant impact through their ministry. He exemplified the love of Christ in his devotion to his family.
Howard grew up in Newton, GA, where he attended Miller County Schools. He graduated from Mitchell-Baker High School as the Class of 1989, where he was known as “Quick”. He studied Business Administration at Austin Peay State University. Howard was a devoted husband to Tasheena Grant Williams and a steadfast father to Christopher, Damien, Nasya, Tiondra, and Taiylor. He took immense pride in being a grandfather to Tyler Harris-Williams, Denise Morgan, and Dawson Williams. Howard shared a friendship with his former wife, Marsha, who supported him during the early stages of his liver disease. Together, they nurtured their children, including their late daughter, Denise Williams.
He is preceded in death by his father, Joseph (Joe) Williams; his grandparents, O.C. and Caldonia Kelly, and B. Bell and Lila Jane Williams; and his nephew, McCory Williams.
Surviving Howard are his mother, Arabia Williams, and siblings Joel Williams, Joan (Ricky) Perry, Herbert (Tonja) Williams, and Timothy (Mary) Williams. He also leaves behind cherished nieces, nephews, aunts, and uncles, as well as his mother-in-law, Jan Lee; father-in-law, Kenneth Cross; brothers-in-law Lionel (Janice) Lee, Gerron (Victoria) Lee, Maliek (Sasha) Daniels; and sisters-in-law Bryana Lee and Aryana Lee.
A proud veteran, Howard served in the U.S. Army for eight years before his medical retirement in 1997. He was affectionately known as "Papa" to his grandchildren and "Coach Williams" for his passion for basketball. Howard found fulfillment in founding the Columbus Rising Stars, an amateur youth girls’ basketball team, where he acted not only as a coach but also as a father figure to many of the young women.
In addition to his coaching role, Howard served as an assistant coach with TEAM Crossover, working alongside Dee Dee Gordon. Together, they formed an unstoppable team, focusing on the fundamentals of the game. Howard was especially proud of the championship game they won, celebrating their victory with a cookie cake that brought him immense joy.
Howard's spirit of love and dedication will be eternally remembered by all who were privileged to know him. Your thoughts and prayers mean so much to us, and we appreciate your support as we honor his memory. In his honor, we invite attendees to wear his favorite color, light pink, or earth-toned palettes like navy, brown, gray, or cream, reflecting his exceptional style.
Visitation will take place on Friday, August 23, 2024, at Striffler-Hamby Mortuary from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A Celebration of Life Ceremony will be held on Saturday, August 24, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, followed by a graveside service with full military honors at Park Hill Cemetery Veterans Garden at 12:30 p.m.
Howard's unconditional love and steadfast dedication leave a legacy that will continue through his family, forever alive in our hearts.
