Wendell Williams

Wendell Long Williams, 82, of Nashville, Tennessee passed away peacefully at home on December 2, 2023. He was born in Kannapolis, North Carolina and is preceded in death by his parents, Ruth Williams and Ralph Williams and his sister Juanelle Oliver. He is survived by his wife Linda W. Williams, and daughters Wendy Williams Hunt and Cindy Willliams-Hite (Michael). He has 8 grandchildren, Jadyn, Tessa, Marcus, Ava, Stella, Bradleigh, Britt (Olivia) and Bailey. Wendell loved his family and friends, and we adored him. It's unbelievable how many people he would lend a helping hand. Story after story we never knew about, of the kindness and big heart he had for family, friends, and those less fortunate. There are numerous examples of how he helped others who were in need even when funds were tight. He loved all the dogs we saved over the years. He was a preacher's kid and he lived up to the stereotypical reputation. He was an humble, hard-working man, jack of all trades, and knew the answers to almost everything. He was a man of few words who was methodical in what he did say. He gave employees second, third, fourth chances and did most things with the shake of a hand. The last of the good ole boys and would jump at the needs of his family. When his mother needed twenty-four-hour care, he moved in with her until her dying day. They don't make men like him anymore. He loved politics, sports, chocolate pie, (well, any food), coffee, guns, Westerns and British shows. He was intellectually superior with a high IQ who finished high school at Lee Academy in Cleveland, TN with one class left at 16 years. He tested out of high school early, because he got into trouble with some friends, and his diploma came in the mail. He sang in school and church choirs and played the trumpet. He also played chess, but none of us had the capacity to play with him because he was too good. He joined the marines in April 1963. He was awarded the dress blues during boot camp as an honor graduate. He holds a National Defense Service medal; Republic of Vietnam Service Medal; Combat Air-Crewman Insignia; Sharpshooter Badge, Rifle; and Air medal. He was honorably discharged in 1967 after serving four years. Before he settled in Nashville, he had great friendships with those he saw everyday at Frank's restaurant in Tampa. Crystal, the owner, is credited for informing his daughters he was not sharing his health issues with us. We are forever grateful for her as she is the catalyst to why we were able to spend the last few years with him. We're thankful for his friends, Chuck and Mike who were great company for him. There will be a void that can never be filled in our hearts, but heaven is rejoicing. We love you DAD!

Wendell Long Williams' Military service will be held January 12th at 10:00am in the rotunda at Middle Tennessee Veterans Cemetery at 7931 McCrory Lane Nashville, Tennessee 37221, and burial will follow. Lunch will be provided at a nearby residence.  

In lieu of flowers consider donating to a Military charity.