Richard Edward Williams

Richard Edward Williams was born on April 21, 1935, in Clay Ground, St. Ann, Jamaica, to parents Dillon Williams and Leila Maud Ashmeade. After his birth, Richard was raised by his aunt, “Miss Vie,” his father’s sister, in Bamboo, Jamaica, where he spent his formative years.

Throughout his life in Jamaica, Richard was well-known and cherished by many. He was affectionately called by several nicknames, including “son-son,” “breadman,” “Richie,” and “Mango.”

Richard dedicated many years of his life working at National Continental Bakery in Jamaica. He delivered a range of baked goods, with bread being the primary product, earning him the nickname “breadman.”

On December 30, 1974, Richard, known as “Mango,” married Joyce Gloria Palmer. Eventually, he moved to Portland, Oregon, joining his wife and raising Omar and Althea, his children with Eula Thompson. Richard spent several decades working at Freightliner and would later retire.

Richard was known for his zest for life and thoroughly enjoyed each moment. As he aged, he faced numerous serious health challenges. Remarkably, he was placed on hospice care four times before his passing and managed to recover each time, “graduating” from hospice.

In recent years, Richard showed a genuine interest in understanding the God of the Bible. His earlier experiences with religious hypocrisy had discouraged him, but learning about life’s impermanence inspired him to learn more. He participated in weekly Bible studies with Mike and friends, eagerly awaiting his teacher “Mikie” to share biblical truths whenever he felt well enough. Even during his final days in the hospital, Richard was surrounded by friends who continued to share spiritual insights with him.

Richard’s wife, Joyce, preceded him in death six months before his own passing. He also lost several siblings: his brother Solomon Ashmeade and sisters Melva Ashmeade, Adlyn Ashmeade, Beryl Ashmeade McCoy, Evelyn Williams, and Silva Wilson. Richard is survived by his daughter Althea Williams, son Omar Williams, grandson Addull Williams, sister Triphene Ashmeade, brothers Uriel Ashmeade and Joseph “Bruce” Ashmeade, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and genuine friends.

Richard lived a long and fulfilling life. While his passing brings sadness, there is comfort in knowing that, as “son-son” learned, this life is temporary. He looked forward to the promise of a real life in God’s Kingdom, where “death will be no more, nor mourning, nor outcry nor pain” (Revelation 21:4), and where he will experience the renewal described in Job 33:25: “… his flesh become fresher than in youth – let him return to the days of his youthful vigor.”

Until that time comes, “Richie” will rest peacefully, safe in Jehovah God’s memory.

The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks for all the prayers, support, comforting words, and love shown during this time.

Acts 25:15: “And I have hope toward God, which hope the men also look forward to, that there is going to be a resurrection of both the righteous and the unrighteous.”