Thomas Jacob Williams

Thomas Jacob Williams went to meet our Lord and Savior Monday, December 23, 2024 at the age of 93. Born in Lincoln Park, Michigan, he was the fourth of 13 children born to James and Theresa Williams. The family moved to Byron Center in 1946 and that’s where he met and married the love of his life, Louise Steffes in 1951; they have celebrated 73 years together. They were blessed with seven children whom he loved very much: Deborah Funk, Kathleen (Jerry) Burgess, Linda (John) VanSingel, Elaine Williams, Ruth Williams, Tom Jr. (Tammy) Williams, and Keith Williams. Two infant children, John and Mary, preceded him to Heaven.

Tom worked for 38 years at Fisher Body (GM) in many facets, starting out as a die maker. He also served on the board at Stampers Credit Union for many years. At home he raised cows, pigs, and chickens, and had a beautiful garden that fed his family. He loved to hunt and fish and for many years around his birthday we would have a huge fish fry, enjoying his mouthwatering catch. Together, Mom and Dad enjoyed spending time at Lake Cecilia near Baldwin. They joined a square dance group and enjoyed dancing when and wherever they could. After retirement, Dad took up wood carving and carved many beautiful pieces. They also enjoyed a good card game.

Tom was a member of the American Legion, having served in the Army during the Korean War. Surviving, besides his children, are 21 grandchildren, 78 great-grandchildren and 12 great-great-grandchildren. Also surviving are his siblings Mary Jane Yarrington, Gerald (Theresa) Williams, Rita Williams (John Gill), Kenneth Williams, Sister Catherine Williams OP, Sister Jean Williams OP, and Sister Joan Williams OP; sisters-in-law Paula Williams, Theresa Williams, and Anne Williams. Preceding him in death were his son; in-laws Bernie Funk and Raymond Voetberg; granddaughter, Baby Girl Funk; grandson, Brian VanSingel; parents James and Theresa Williams; brothers Larry, James, Ed, and Francis; sister, Sister Joyce Williams OP; brother-in-law, Brantley Yarrington; sisters-in-law Margaret Williams and Helen Williams. Also preceding him were his father and mother-in-law Sebastian (Mike) and Lonie Steffes; and sister-in-law, Dorothy Budinger and her husband, Peter.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:30 a.m. Saturday, December 28, 2024 at St. Sebastian Catholic Church, 9408 Wilson Ave., Byron Center, with Msgr. William Duncan celebrant. The family will receive relatives and friends 4-7 p.m. Friday December 27, 2024, with a Vigil service at 6:45 p.m. at Cook Funeral Home, 2067 84th St. SW, Byron Center, and one hour prior to Mass on Saturday. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Sebastian Church or Faith Hospice. The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresbyron.com in their guestbook online.