Garnet Emil Williams III
July 7, 1961 – April 11, 2025
Garnet Emil Williams III, a proud veteran and beloved brother, passed away on April 11, 2025, at the age of 63. Born on July 7, 1961, in Jersey City, New Jersey, Garnet later moved to West Orange, NJ, where he attended West Orange High School and began a life defined by service, discipline, and quiet strength. Known affectionately as “Will” to his West Coast friends and “Popa” to his East Coast family, Garnet’s presence left a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Garnet enlisted in the United States Army and served with distinction as a member of the Big Red One-1st Infantry Division. A veteran of Operation Desert Storm, he committed himself fully to protecting his country. Military service wasn’t just something Garnet did-it was a deep expression of who he was.
Throughout his military career, Garnet traveled the world, collecting stories he loved to share. He often spoke of his time stationed in Germany, his critical role along the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), and the years he spent training South Korean soldiers. His pride in serving U.S. interests abroad was matched only by his passion for storytelling.
He lived by the Big Red One’s motto: “No Mission Too Difficult, No Sacrifice Too Great. Duty First.” These words were not just part of a creed-they were the way Garnet lived his life. Whether in uniform or in civilian life, he met every challenge with integrity, purpose, and quiet strength.
Garnet took special pride in his military lineage, especially knowing he shared the name and legacy of his grandfather, Tuskegee Airman Garnet Emil Williams Sr., who served in World War II. That same legacy now continues through his eldest daughter, Tanya, who has already begun a life of service in the ROTC and plans to join the military after high school.
After ten years in the Army, Garnet chose to remain at his final deployment site and transitioned into civilian life as a professional truck driver. He purchased a home and created a life rooted in stability and gratitude. His greatest joy came from being a father to his two beloved daughters, Tanya and Anie Williams (mother: Tanya Chase). He dedicated his life to their care and love, giving each of them a ring as a lasting symbol of his devotion and commitment.
While building a life in Washington State, Garnet welcomed his brother, Jeffrey Williams, to join him. Reconnecting on the West Coast brought them full circle, renewing a childhood bond that became a source of strength and support. After Jeffrey’s passing, Garnet found comfort in the companionship of his long-term partner, Chanel Perez who stood by him through his grief and helped him find peace.
Garnet is preceded in death by his cherished family members: his grandfather Tuskegee Airman Garnet Emil Williams Sr., grandmother Louise Williams, grandmother Dolores Miller Williams, father Garnet Emil Williams Jr., stepfather Herman Merritt, brother Jeffrey Clark Williams, grandfather Sylvanus Napoleon, and grandmother Evelyn Napoleon.
He is survived by his mother Tecla Merritt, brother Randi Merritt, sister Mia Williams Franco (Roberto), sister Ceciley Williams. His beloved daughters Tanya and Anie Williams, and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, grand nephews, and cousins who will forever carry the memory of Garnet Emil Williams III their hearts.
Celebration of life services will be held 10am, Friday, April 25, 2025 at Scott Funeral Home
