Charlie W. Williams was born in Clarksville, Mississippi July 27, 1932 to Charlie and Mariah Williams.  Charlie was the youngest of three sons.  Preceding him in death are his father Charlie Williams, his mother, Mariah Williams, two brothers Ivory Williams and Excell R. Williams and his loving wife Bertha Mae Williams.

Charlie’s early years of education were in the public schools of Clarksville, Mississippi.  After graduating high school he married the love of his life, Bertha Mae McBride.  To their union two children were born, Larry and Sheila.  After being married for two years, Charlie was drafted into the United States Army in 1952 and made a career for himself in the military. He completed military courses and excelled as a leader in the military, they called him TOP.  He served 30 years making rank all the way to Sergeant First Class.  He was known as a “Soldier’s Soldier”, was well spoken of by his superiors and was offered the position of Sergeant Major but he turned it down to retire.  While serving in Vietnam March 1967 to March 1968, he distinguished himself with outstanding meritorious service and was awarded by direction of the President THE BRONZE STAR MEDAL.  After retiring from the United State Army in 1982, Charlie and his wife Bertha started their own business on Fort Lewis.  United Taxi Company, he was the first black man to own a taxi service in Tacoma, WA.  He successfully ran this business with his loving wife until her death in 1997.

Charlie accepted the Lord early in his life.  He was a faithful member of the New Jerusalem COGIC where he was a member until his passing.  Charlie was known as being a loving father to his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  He was a great caretaker and very compassionate. Charlie departed this life on Friday, September 18, 2020.  He will be greatly missed by his family and church family.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his loving children, Sheila Marie Williams-Griffis and Larry Darnell Williams. One Son-in-Law, Robert Griffis, Two Grandsons, Larry Darnell Williams and Jordan Williams.  One great-grand daughter Leilah Mae Williams and a host of family and friends.

Services to be held October 2, 2020

Viewing 10am

Funeral 11am

New Jerusalem Church 1623 So. 11th Street Tacoma, WA 98405