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Obituary for Rick Williams
Melvin James Williams (aka Rick) was born on September 22, 1932 in Vaiden, Mississippi. He was the youngest child of 7 children of Perry and Essie Maude Williams. His family moved to East Chicago, Indiana when he was very young and later settled in Gary, Indiana.
Rick was baptized at St. James Missionary Baptist Church by Rev. Guyton at an early age. He attended public school in Gary where he was active in sports and graduated from Roosevelt High School. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1949 at the young age of 17. He heroically fought in the Korean War and was also an amateur boxer who competed in the Army boxing program.
Upon discharge from the Army, Rick relocated to Chicago where he met and married the love of his life, Franco. To this union, two sons, Rodney and Reggie, were born. The family moved to the Motor City (Detroit) in 1967. In 1974 the family moved to Canton, MI. Rick had a successful career in the automotive industry working at Chrysler for 10 years, and then retiring from General Motors Hydra Matic Transmission Plant after 18 years serving as a supervisor. He joined St. Luke A.M.E. Church in 1976 and served as an usher and trustee. He remained a faithful member until his death.
Rick peacefully departed this life on December 31, 2020, the last day of an unprecedented year. Rick was preceded in death by his son, Reggie Williams; parents, Perry and Essie Maude Williams; 1 sister, Allie West Allen; and 7 brothers, Ivory Williams, Ervin Williams, James Williams, Ernest Williams, Leroy Williams, Ora Kennedy, and London Kennedy. He leaves to cherish his memory: loving and devoted wife, Franco; son, Rodney (Terri) Williams; grandchildren, Jackson and Madeline Williams, and special cousin, Eva Williams and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.
Visitation will take place at Lynch & Sons Funeral Home, 1368 N. Crooks Road (between 14-15 Mile Roads), Sunday, January 3, 3-8pm. Due to gathering restrictions, Monday’s 11am Funeral Service will be private; however, a livestream link will be provided here Monday morning for those who wish to attend virtually. The service will also be recorded and posted here Monday afternoon for those who aren’t able to watch at 11am.
To view the pre-recorded service, please click the link below:
