M. J. Williams

On April 22nd, M.J. Williams, Jr. of Tallahassee, Florida (formerly of Bethesda, Maryland) passed away peacefully at Capital Regional Medical Center, in the presence of three generations of family members. He was 88 years-old.

Mr. Williams was born on March 3, 1923 in Jackson Mississippi. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 44 years, Edna Earl Williams. They were married on December 7, 1946. He is survived by his four sons, Doug Williams of Tallahassee, Warren "Ace" Williams of Sterling, VA, Mark Williams of Montgomery, AL, and Alan Williams of Memphis, TN, ten grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. He's additionally survived by his brother, Johnny Williams of Gulfport, MS.

After serving courageously in World War II, he earned a Bachelor's degree from Millsaps College, then furthered his education with graduate studies at Ole Miss and post-graduate studies at Duke University. Mr. Williams enjoyed a robust and successful professional life with stints at Dupont, Southwestern at Memphis 'Rhodes College', National Association of College and Business Officers (NACUBO) , Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Communication Works.

Friends and relatives remember him as the quintessential southern gentleman. A life-long Presbyterian, this humble Mississippi man was passionate about the arts, politics, fine dining and traveling abroad. But most of all, he unabashedly loved his family. His strong will and optimism gave him the ability to smile, even laugh, his way through the toughest of circumstances. No doubt, he was dearly loved by all who knew him.

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, May 3rd, at 11:00 am, Westminster Oaks (Maquire Center) in Tallahassee.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Millsaps College | 1701 North State Street | Jackson, MS 39210 * MJ Williams | Class of 1947.

Arrangements are under the direction of Culley's MeadowWood Funeral Home, Tallahassee, FL.