Mr. Cecil Ravin Williams

Mr. Cecil Ravin Williams was born on August 13, 1928 in Jefferson, Texas to the union of James Williams, Sr. and Christine Mack Williams. Coming from humble beginnings with a family full of love, he grew into a man that was diligent, wise, hard-working, and always welcoming to his family and friends. His friends affectionately nicknamed him “Jolly” due to his friendly disposition and the big smile that was always on his face. He prided himself on providing, protecting, preparing, and building for his family.

He attended Wheatley High School in Houston, TX. Afterward, he went on to serve in the United States Army, earning the rank of Private First Class, in both the Army Reserves and in Active Duty, serving during the Korean War. He earned an honorable discharge.

In 1959, he had the good fortune of meeting his loving wife, Alice Faye Noble Williams. He often talked about how much he appreciated that she stood by his side faithfully for over 63 years, and there she was right by his side until the very end. He was the proud father of 3 children: Addie Louise, Sheila Renae, and Glenn Darrell Williams. He and his wife also raised one of his granddaughters, LaTashia Renae, just like a daughter in their home from early in her childhood.

Cecil worked in several careers, most notably at Schlumberger Oil and Well Services, retiring as a Warehouse Supervisor. Some of his coworkers from Schlumberger became lifelong friends. After retirement, he continued to contribute within the community by serving as a private school bus driver for the Williams Academy and other Houston ISD schools. He enjoyed laughing and fussing with the children, and made their trips to school memorable. He also was a very supportive father and grandfather, and spent much of his time supporting the M.B. Smiley High School Band, TSU Talent Search, and Upward Bound Programs. He created a carpool so that many of the children from the North Forest community would be able to attend positive activities.

His home was always open to everyone, and he had a way of making everyone feel welcome. He would have all of the grandchildren and great-grandchildren at his home, and also would make anyone feel welcome to come on over for Sunday dinner. He always had a kind word, and a big greeting!

Cecil departed this life on December 2, 2021, aged 93 years. He is preceded in death by his parents, James and Christine Williams; seven (7) brothers: Rev. McKinley Johnson, Arthur Lee Williams, Ulysses Williams, Freddie Williams, Elijah Williams, Henry Williams, and James Williams, Sr.; three (3) sisters: Margaret Williams, Hazel B. McKinney, and Clara Kelley; his two daughters: Addie Louise Simmons and Shelia Renae Williams Hicks; one grandson, David Green; and one great-grandson, Michael Brisco.

He leaves to cherish his memories: his wife, Alice Faye Williams; his beloved and only son, Glenn D. Williams, Sr. (Leslee); four grandchildren- Angela Plater Arnold, Glenn D. Williams, Jr. (Yuvanca), Dr. LaTashia Irving, and Ryan O. Williams; one sister, Dorothy “Dot” Bowie; three sisters-in law, Willie Mae Williams, Rosie Williams, and Virginia Noble; eight great-grandchildren: Markus, Kaylia, Felix, Danjai, K’iana, Glenn III, Liam, and Emeri-Rose; and a host of nieces, nephews, great-great grandchildren, and friends.