Elmer Ray Williams, age 90, of Phenix City, Alabama, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, February 28, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 5, 2026, Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, Phenix City, Alabama. Visitation prior to service from 11:30 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.
Ray was born July 1, 1935, in Russell County, Alabama, the son of Charlie Chester and Exa Ann (Wynn) Williams. When Ray was just 8 years old his father was killed. The rest of his childhood was marked by hard work, instilling in him a relentless sense of duty to support his family and a knack for finding clever ways to earn an extra dollar.
In 1957, he married Miss Judy, the love of his life. Soon after, he was drafted into the U.S. Army, where he received advanced training in radio school. Stationed in Germany, he became a highly sought-after radioman for his lightning-fast skill in sending and receiving encrypted Morse code messages.
Ray retired from Tom’s Foods in 1997, where he was a whiz at repairing and refurbishing snack vending machines, including installing logic control boards. He was a legendary antiques picker and master furniture refinisher, eventually opening his popular store, “Ray’s Antiques and Uniques,” off Highway 80 near Ladonia.
Not one to slow down, Ray authored the book Highway 80 West, which was published in 2024 at age 88. The book details his amazing life and what he will truly be remembered for: his deep, never-ending love for his wife and family.
Other things he enjoyed were estate sales, going to the casino, Alabama football and frequenting JR’s Steakhouse.
Elmer Ray Williams was preceded in death by Judith Allen Williams, his beloved wife of 64 years. He is survived by sister, Mary Oakes; daughters, Karen Williams Underwood and Joy Williams; grandchildren, Eric Underwood (Amber), Kaleb Underwood, Brittany Woods, Kelby Hall and Ashley Hall; great-grandchildren, Brady Coberly, Jace Young, Jaden Young, Gabe Smith and Jocelyn Smith; several nieces and nephews; his cat Sadie and a large workshop packed with antique tools and furniture awaiting his talented craftsmanship.
Come join the celebration of Ray’s life in your favorite plaid or flowered shirt and favorite pair of jeans.
