Kenneth A Williams

Kenneth A. Williams, a longtime resident of Belleville, Illinois, and a beloved source of inspiration to his family and friends, peacefully departed this life on Sunday, October 11, 2026, at Memorial Hospital in Belleville, Illinois. He was 61 years old.

Kenneth was born on February 2, 1965, at Christian Welfare Hospital in East St. Louis, Illinois, to the late Eddie Lee Williams Sr. and Dorothy Mae Woods-Williams. He was the ninth of ten children born to this union.

Kenneth received his early education in East St. Louis, Illinois, and graduated from East St. Louis Senior High School. He enjoyed attending school and developed a strong love for the Lord, which remained an important part of his life.

At the tender age of three, Kenneth experienced the heartbreaking loss of his mother to cancer. Despite this early tragedy, his childhood was filled with cherished memories. He enjoyed riding his toy fire truck around the backyard, climbing trees with his friend who lived across the street, and eagerly awaiting his father's return home from work. Kenneth especially looked forward to the delicious meals his father prepared, as he was known to be an exceptional cook.

Following his graduation from East St. Louis Senior High School, Kenneth proudly enlisted in the United States Army, continuing the family tradition of military service established by the men and women of the Woods and Williams families. He took great pride in serving his country and enjoyed sharing stories and memories of his military experiences with others.

After completing his military service, Kenneth married Beverly Byas, and together they welcomed their only child, a beloved son, Terrance Williams. Fatherhood brought Kenneth great pride and joy. Sadly, Beverly died of colon cancer November 26th, 2019.

Kenneth, a man of faith who remained devoted to the Apostolic Christian faith, which believed in the remission of sins through water baptism by immersion in the name of Jesus Christ, and in the infilling of the gift of the Holy Spirit. Kenneth believed in the power of prayer and the goodness of God. Throughout his life, he offered spiritual encouragement, comfort, and words of wisdom to those facing difficult circumstances. He remained devoted to prayer, continually giving thanks to God for the many blessings bestowed upon him. One of his thoughtful traditions was sharing inspirational gifts, religious keepsakes, and plaques with his sister Dana, reflecting his desire to uplift and encourage those he loved.

Kenneth was also a hardworking and dedicated man who took pride in providing for himself and his family. Throughout his working years, he held various positions, and later serving as a laborer at Rochester Meat Company in Cahokia, Illinois. Unfortunately, a work-related injury there led to multiple surgeries and ultimately forced him into retirement. Although Kenneth endured significant physical challenges and suffering in the years that followed, his life remained a testament to perseverance, strength, and faith.

On Sunday, October 11, 2026, Kenneth answered life's final call and departed this earthly life, leaving behind a legacy of cherished memories, love, and devotion to family.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his ex-wife, Beverly Williams; his loving parents, Eddie Lee Williams Sr. and Dorothy Mae Woods-Williams; his sisters, Bernice M. Williams-Salmond of Cahokia, Illinois, Beverly Kay Williams of East St. Louis, Illinois, and Kim Lanore Williams of Gary, Indiana; his brothers, Thomas L. Williams of Lompoc, California, and Eddie Lee Williams Jr. of Cahokia, Illinois; his sister-in-law, Cynthia Williams; and his grandparents, George and Nellie Williams of East St. Louis, Illinois, and Bennie and Virginia Marie Woods of La Center, Kentucky.

Kenneth's precious memory will forever be cherished by his beloved son, Terrance Williams and his grandson Kearan Williams of Paducah, Kentucky; his loving sisters, Mary C. (Charles) Medley of Springfield, Illinois, Jewel V. Williams of St. Louis, Missouri, Dana R. (Craig) Jackson of Belleville, Illinois, and Doris R. (Alfred) Irving of Columbus, Georgia; along with a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great-nieces, great-great-nephews, aunts, extended family members, and dear friends.

Kenneth's journey on earth may have come to an end, but the love he shared, the faith he demonstrated, and the memories he created will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his memory forever be a blessing.