Oliver "Buddy" Williams

NORTHPORT | Oliver ""Buddy"" Williams, age 76, of Northport, died July 10, 2015, at home. Services will be 2 p.m. Monday, July 13, 2015 at Sunset Funeral Home with Gary Bonner officiating. Visitation will be Monday, July 13, 2015, at 12:30 p.m. with Sunset, a Dignity Memorial Provider, directing. He was preceded in death by his wife, Eloise Wells Williams; parents, James H. and Mae Williams; step-father, W. Gaither Burchfield; sisters, Betty Deason and Loraine Smith; and brothers, James D. Williams and Otis N. Williams.Survivors include his daughter, Shannon Hollis (Justin) of Northport; son, Bryant Williams of Northport; and grandchildren, Zachary Williams, Haley Hollis, Preston Hollis, and Chase Hollis.Oliver ""Buddy"" Williams grew up in Northport, Ala. He was raised on Tanyard Street and Main Avenue. He graduated from Tuscaloosa County High School where he lettered in sports and was recognized for his athletic ability as a running back. He served in the National Guard. He was married to Eloise Wells from Tuscaloosa for 35 years. They raised their children in Northport and were lifelong members of Northport Baptist Church. He worked for the Tuscaloosa Fire Department for many years and retired as Assistant Fire Chief. He then worked at B.F. Goodrich for a number of years.Buddy was a hard worker and a loving provider for his family. He supported and encouraged his children to pursue their love of music and develop their talents. He was instrumental in establishing and promoting the Annual Fireman's Gospel Singing at Memorial Coliseum, He enjoyed serving at the Salvation Army Soup Kitchen on holidays. The joy of his life was spending time with his four grandchildren.Pallbearers will be members of the Tuscaloosa Fire and Rescue Department.In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Northport Baptist Church Building Fund, The Salvation Army, or you favorite charity.