Obituary for Albert E. “Al” Williams Albert Ellman Williams, of Midlothian, VA, quietly departed this life on September 22, 2018 at the age of 89. He was born on March 24, 1929, and after his father’s sudden death, was raised by a hardworking mother in the segregated town of Charlottesville, VA. Albert received a Bachelor of Science in Education from North Carolina Central University in 1950.
He continued his education at the University of Virginia and earned a Master’s in Education in 1958. Albert touched the lives of thousands of students as he taught high school instrumental music for over 30 years in the Rye Neck, NY school system and said he never missed a day from work. He served in the United States Army during the Korean war and played trumpet in the Army band.
Later, while living in White Plains, NY, he was very involved in Bethel Baptist Church and held memberships in several music organizations. For several years he was president of the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity. He enjoyed daily life with diverse neighbors on Lincoln Avenue and was always available to discuss how to solve the world’s problems.
In addition, was a founding partner of Dogwood Housing in Charlottesville which provided quality housing for low income residents for 27 years. The family business received special recognition from the Virginia Assembly in 2015. Albert was a dignified hardworking man who loved God and was quick to say he was a blessed man.
The second love of his life, Emma, was always his main priority and concern. He also enjoyed good music, good food, and telling stories. As a skilled woodworker he made many unique items in his house and also enjoyed diligently pruning bushes; a skill his father passed on to him.
He will be remembered as a strong yet humble Christian man who encouraged all who came across his path. Albert lived by what his mother once told him, “do the best you can with what you got”. He is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Emma, with whom he claimed to never have had a fight.
He also leaves a devoted daughter, Patricia Whitaker (Darnell), grandchildren, Alana, Lauren, Timothy, and Whitney, loving brother Eugene Williams (Lorraine), son, Brian Williams and many family members and friends. He was greatly loved by the staff at Bickford Senior Living as well. The Entire Staff of Lee’s Funeral Home, LLC respects that the family of Albert Williams entrusted the communication of the passing of their loved one to us, and that they value the level of service & attention our funeral home provides.
We are honored, in turn, to provide this communication, as well as comfort, assistance and service to the family of Albert Williams during their time of bereavement. In LIEU of flowers, Memorial gifts may be made to your local Alzheimer’s Association in his name. To send flowers to the family of Albert E. “Al” Williams, please visit our Heartfelt Sympathies Store.
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