Obituary
Jeffrey Clark Williams was a Prince. Jeffrey was the second child born to Garnet and Tecla Williams in Jersey City, New Jersey on August 30, 1962. After his parents divorce and his mothers new marriage to Herman E. Merritt, the family moved to West Orange, New Jersey. In the West Orange public school system Jeffrey flourished. He was well accepted and liked. In junior high he developed his love of cooking. He would prepare simple meals such as hot dogs and beans in fancy presentations. He also joined the cross country team and found a love for long distance running. He won many medals. Jeffrey also had a flare for fashion at a young age being voted best dressed by his peers in high school.
During high school and college Jeff worked at the International House of Pancakes. It was here he decided he would pursue his career in the culinary arts. After graduating West Orange High School, he attended Hudson County College’s Culinary Arts Program. Jeffrey mastered the skillful art of presentation, he could create all kinds of figures out of fruits, vegetables, and food. He also had the opportunity to work as part of a team that prepared a luncheon for Vice President, Al Gore. After he finished his program he worked for many years at the Pegasus Restaurant, in the Meadowlands.
Shortly after high school Jeffrey married Kendal Meadows and they had four children together, Asia & Kyle (deceased) and Kyra & Jada Williams. Jeffrey was a loving father and he loved spending time with his family.. He had such a good soul and always offered love and affection. With comedic timing, he told the best stories that would have everyone laughing. After separating from Kendal, Jeffrey left New Jersey for Tacoma, Washington in 2001. He moved west for a new start and to join his brother Garnet. After being on the west coast for many years he met his life partner Betty Parks and they spent the last 17 years together worshiping the lord and watching grandchildren. Jeffrey Clark Williams passed on October 18, 2021. He is survived by Mother Tecla P. Merritt, Life Partner Betty Parks, daughters Jada and Kyra Williams, grandson Mryon Gattis, III, brothers Garnet E. Williams, III and Randi A. Merritt, sisters Mia D. Franco (Roberto) and Ceciley A. Williams, and a host of Aunts, Uncle, Cousins, Nieces, Nephew and Friends. He is preceded by his father Garnet E. Williams, II, step father Herman E. Merritt, Daughter Asia Marie Williams, Son Kyle Douglass Williams. Great Uncle Rodney Miller, Aunt Cortel Tappan, God Mother Kathy Winn.
Visitation services for Jeffrey Clark Williams will be held Saturday, November 6, 2021 3pm-7pm at Scott Funeral Home with a service being held from 4pm-5pm.
Jeffery, thank you for graduating from HHCC- culinary arts program way back when, as it inspired me to go on to nursing school. Thank you for inviting me to become Muslim, also way back in the day, it saved me in many times and in many ways while growing up in a rough hood.
One of the last things you said to me was “We still love each other”. Though we didn’t speak often over the last years… “we still loved each other” – so true. Rest In Peace Cuz. Always gonna love you, Toni.
Jeffrey, God made you so, so gentle. I always loved that about you! I pray you didn’t suffer to much, as your life was hard enough!
God Bless Your Spirtual Journey ,
In Care, Vanessa
Rest in Power Big Cuz 🙏🙏🙏🙏❤️❤️❤️❤️
As a family we grow and go on our individual journeys. Oftentimes we don’t speak as much and see each other even less, but the love is still there. Though I can’t speak to you know I do have the memories of our youth. I’m sure we’ll laugh about them when I see you again.
R. I. P cousin. Love you. Dwayne
Rest in Peace, Jeff. My nephew, My brother.