Ruke Augustus Williams

Ruke Augustus Williams was born on December 3, 1928 in Salem, St. Ann. He was 5th of 8th siblings (Alphanso, Esperanza, Hyacinth, Victor, Eldin and Stunce – all deceased) born to Ernest and Eva Williams (nee Duncan). He attended Wolberry Primary School in Salem and then moved to Kingston to attend North Street Excelsior High School where he did vocational training in Accounting. Upon graduating from High School, he would begin working at Kingston Industrial Garage (KIG). He retired from that company 42 years later having held the position of Parts Manager. He met Mary (Rosalie) in 1950 and they would marry in 1953 and have 3 children: Clive (deceased), Jewel and Paul. Ruke emigrated to the United States in 1990 where he would begin working for Winn Dixie and Toys R Us. He then moved to Publix, where he would work for 19 years before retiring in 2010.

Ruke was a man of unfailing and unshakeable faith. In Jamaica he was a member and Deacon at the East Queens Street Baptist Church. Upon moving to the United States, he joined Coral Baptist Church (now Church by the Glades) where he also served as a Deacon as well as a member of the choir.

Ruke never met a stranger. He was always willing and ready to talk with every and anyone. He loved to share his stories and life lessons with those he knew. We are all deeply saddened by his passing. Ruke is survived by his widow, Mary, Children – Jewel and Paul, Daughters in Laws - Hope and Suzanne, Grandchildren: Darren, Danielle, Dale and Tristan; Grand-daughter in law – Janelle; and Great Grandchildren: Blake and Mason as well as a great numbers of nieces and nephews.