Dr. Williams Olobodunde Olatubi

Today we gather in gratitude to honor the life of Dr. Williams Olobodunde Olatubi—a devoted husband, father, brother, scholar, and faithful servant of God. Williams was the beloved husband of Darleen for 26 blessed years, and the proud father of Oluwaseyi (Williams Jr.) and Oluwaseun (Ray). He was a cherished brother to Nelson, Festus, Wilson, Matthew, Wale, Stella, Agnes, Eunice, Akinola, Olufosoye, Oladokun, and Aina.

Born on November 14, 1960, in Akure, Nigeria, to Benson and Yela, Williams’ life was shaped by humble beginnings and extraordinary determination. Raised in a modest home supported by his father’s farming of cocoa and other crops, he learned early the values of hard work, gratitude, and perseverance. Even as a young college student sleeping on the floors of friends’ boarding rooms, Williams held tightly to the dream God placed in his heart: to pursue higher education and one day earn his Ph.D.

While working in civil servant roles throughout the states surrounding Akure, Williams continued to seek opportunities to advance his education. In a moment of divine provision, a foreign businessman offered to pay the fees for Williams to apply to the World Bank Scholar Program. Months passed without word, and Williams accepted admission to a Nigerian university to begin doctoral studies. But God had already prepared a greater path. Just one week later, a letter arrived announcing that Williams had been awarded a full World Bank scholarship, including housing and a monthly stipend.

With renewed hope, he applied to every U.S. university he could afford, often borrowing money from friends for application fees. His first acceptance came from Louisiana State University (LSU), where he began his journey to the United States. His first night in America was spent on a simple cot in the International Student Welcome Center—yet even that humble moment was overshadowed by the joy of stepping into God’s promise.

Williams went on to earn a Master’s in Economics, a Master’s in Agricultural Economics, and a Doctorate of Philosophy. He later served as a Research Assistant at LSU, building lifelong friendships and professional networks. It was also at LSU that he met Darleen, forming a bond rooted in faith, intellect, and shared purpose. They were married in a Korean church filled with Christian fellowship, love, and community support.

When Williams accepted a position at a bank in Washington State, the family found another spiritual home in Lynnwood, WA—a church community that embraced them with warmth and Godly fellowship. In Seattle, God blessed their union with two sons, who became the joy of Williams’ life. Though he achieved many academic and professional accolades—including leadership roles in Risk Management at banks in Ohio and retiring from PNC in 2023—he always said his greatest accomplishments were his boys.

He was present for every milestone: soccer games, math competitions, chess tournaments, marching band, jazz performances, and bowling events. He cherished their fishing trips, golf outings, and road adventures—moments that strengthened the bond between father and sons. Williams poured wisdom, encouragement, and faith into his children, leaving them with a foundation that will guide them for the rest of their lives.

Though his earthly body grew weary from chronic ailments, his spirit remained steadfast. Williams lived as a faithful servant of God—trusting Him through every chapter, every challenge, and every blessing. Today, we rest in the assurance that he is home with the Lord, whole and rejoicing in God’s kingdom. We imagine him greeting loved ones with his warm smile, embracing them with the same kindness he shared on earth.

Dr. Williams Olobodunde Olatubi leaves behind a legacy of faith, perseverance, humility, and love. His life reminds us that God’s miracles unfold step by step, guiding us toward His purpose. Williams is deeply loved, profoundly missed, and forever remembered.

A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held on Friday, September 18, 2026, from 6:00 p.m.  - 7:00 p.m. at The Church of the Highlands Chapel, located at 4700 Highlands Way, Irondale, AL 35210.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, September 19, 2026 from 10:00am until 11:00am at Ridout's Prattville Chapel, 347 E. Main St., Prattville, Al. 36067, with a Celebration of Life service to begin at 11:00am. Burial will follow the service at Prattville Memory Gardens, 841 Fairview Ave., Prattville, Al. 36066.