Mr. Wallace Williams

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If anyone ever cared, really cared for someone else it would have to be Mr. Wallace Williams. He was a warm hearted and well liked individual, and these wonderful traits came easily to him because he was such a sociable and amiable person, someone who was always making certain that those around him had whatever they needed. Wallace was a sociable person (especially with the ladies) who was tactful at all times but typically said what he meant.

He was the son of Leonard and Geneva Jackson Williams. Wallace was raised in in Quincy, FL. During his childhood he learned to be reliable and respectful. He was a hard worker who learned how to take care of his family, at a young age. These admirable qualities would become a part of Wallace's personality throughout his life.

Though Wallace was frequently the one to initiate games and activities with his family, he was also quite often the family member who took the role of referee. He had an ability to resolve all sorts of conflicts with family and others. In fact, Wallace worked conscientiously to keep those typical spats at bay. He was raised with nine siblings - five brothers, Tommy, John, David, Henry Lee, and John Lee; and four sisters, Betty Jean, Lucretia, Jeanette, and Rutha Mae. Wallace and his siblings had the typical rivalries while growing up, but they cared deeply for one another.

As someone who reveled in the sheer joy of his experiences, Wallace was always enthusiastic about new adventures. Although he had an exacting nature, Wallace was always tactful. One thing he will certainly be remembered for is that, when he got up in the mornings, he was ready and raring to go. As a young boy, Wallace had a number of interests and was an active child. In his spare time he liked playing baseball and almost had the opportunity to play in the Negro Leagues. He also liked dancing, drag racing, and building cars.

There was one thing that all of Wallace's friends knew and will still remember, and that is that he was a talker. He could pretty much talk to anybody about anything. This quality is one of the primary reasons that Wallace was such a popular person throughout his life. But Wallace was also dependable, loyal and trustworthy. Wallace was the kind of person who simply radiated good fellowship. While he maintained personal standards and his own personal values, Wallace was accepting of others. With a distinct skill for working things out, Wallace was often the person who would organize events. In fact, Wallace was fairly comfortable playing the role of “host” for just about any occasion. When Wallace made friends, he made true and lasting friendships. While growing up, some of his best friends were John, Berry, Bear Cat, Miller and Moores.

Wallace was a faithful and loving person. His kindness and consideration radiated an aura of warmth to those around him. Wallace cared for what others thought but, he was not a pushover. He would tell you exactly how he felt about any situation, if necessary.

Wallace was blessed with thirteen children, Wallace, Rickey, Gary, Aaron, Sharon, Janice, Ann, Angela, Gloria, Tamaica, Myeisha, Marshayla, and Christopher. He was also blessed with twenty-two grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren: twins - J. J. & J. W., Jerry, Marvin, Noah, Bobby, Jonathan, Dave, Dana, Darren, Darrel, Prince, Jay' Ceon, Princess, Tayla, Michael, Jacquanza, Kahiya, Alicia, Ti' Mir, Jordan, and Erica. His ten great-grandchildren consisted of: Jaleah, Asher, Zuri, Masi, Maze, Adonis, Adrina, and Miriam.

Taking his work seriously came naturally to Wallace, and he expected the same from those around him. He was what some would call a “people person” and it was demonstrated in his communication skills. Wallace was a steady worker, one who was realistic about schedules. The kind of details that would give family members and work colleagues fits were situations that Wallace handled well. He could understand the details without getting lost in the broad “big picture.” He was employed as a Cement Mason and Plumber. He was employed for over 60 years with Oliver Plumbing Company before becoming self-employed. He did what was necessary in order to get the job done, while always maintaining respect.

A methodical man, Wallace enjoyed spending time working on his various hobbies. His favorite pursuits were baseball, drag racing, horse racing, boxing, car racing, football, wrestling, and most of all caring for / socializing with family and friends.

Wallace was one of those people who took pride in constantly putting forth his best effort. Nowhere was that more visible than in sports. Wallace also liked being a sports fan and enjoyed following his favorite teams whenever he got the opportunity. Tops on his list were baseball especially during the Willie Mays era, football, wrestling, boxing, and car racing.

Not only did Wallace enjoy sports, but he also seemed to enjoy planning all of those trips and vacations to Florida.

Wallace was a lover of animals and cherished his pets. One of his favorites was a German Shephard named “Mike”, who was a good friend for 10 years.

Since it was easy for Wallace to meet and get to know new people, he quickly made friends, even in retirement. Once he met those new friends, he loved sharing stories and talking about the good old days. Since he was practical and cost effective, Wallace was ready when that day to retire finally came in 2007. His new life involved relocating to Brentwood then Vallejo before returning to Richmond, CA. In retirement, he found new pleasure in staying active in sports, as well as, quality time with his children, grandchildren, staying in contact and socializing with long-time friends and meeting new acquaintances.

Wallace passed away on June 20, 2023 at Green Ridge Assisted Living and Rehabilitation surrounded by some of his family. He will be remembered dearly in the hearts of his children, grand and great-grandchildren; and a host of relatives and dear friends.

Wallace was a fantastic conversationalist who could engage just about anyone in a discussion, especially women. And whenever he said something, he meant it. Wallace was a down to earth person, outgoing and gregarious. He was without question the type of person who enjoyed experiencing things first hand. He was practical and sensible, but what friends and family will remember him for most is the fact that he was so understanding and kind. Everyone whose life he touched will miss Mr. Wallace Williams.