Mr. James Oliver Williams

James Oliver Williams (better known as Gene) was born to the union of John Henry Williams, Sr. and Anna Lillian Hines Williams on September 18, 1927, in Louisville, Kentucky. He was the fourth born of eight children. Gene accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized at Centennial Olive Baptist Church in Louisville, Kentucky. Gene graduated form Central High School in Louisville, Kentucky. Wanting to continue his education, he applied to the University of Kentucky but was denied admittance due to his race. Not letting this stop his pursuit of knowledge, he attended and graduated from the educational division of Homer G. Phillips Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri, as an X-ray technician. Gene worked as an X-ray technician for several years in Kentucky before moving to Columbus, Ohio, where he worked at the Defense Logistic Agency for thirty years. In 1987, Gene retired, moved to Milwaukee, and began volunteering at 21st Street School where his niece Joy was in 2nd grade. He later found employment at the Milwaukee Urban League where he counseled young people and assisted them in getting their GED. While at the Urban League, he served as a host at many of the Black and White Balls. He loved attending this event, dressing in fancy tuxedos and greeting people. Gene loved to shop and was a sharp dresser. He had personal shoppers long before they became popular. Salespeople in several stores knew what style he liked and would call him whenever new merchandise would arrive. Gene loved to participate in the Annual Johnetta Borum Christmas Party for Deserving Children. Having seven nieces, he especially enjoyed buying trucks for the boys. Gene was a fixture in his neighborhood and a devoted member of St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church. Gene passed away at home on Monday, February 15, 2016. He was preceded in death by his parents, John Henry, Sr. and Anne Lillian Williams; sisters, Frances Williams and Mary Williams Johnson; and brothers, John Henry, Jr. and Charles Williams. He leaves to cherish his memory: his brothers, Edward, Clifford Chester, and Gilbert Williams; niece, Frances Juanita Johnson Smith; nephew, Raymond (Cindy) Johnson; seven grandnieces, Joy (Dwayne) Jackson, Amanda, Hilary, Claire, Rachel, Gabriella, and Natalie Johnson; two great-grandnieces, Alanna and Zoe Jackson; one great-grandnephew, Travis Carter; best friend, Douglas Simmons; and a host of relatives and friends throughout the country.

Mr. James Oliver Williams

September 18, 1927 - February 16, 2016