Harry Williams
November 10, 1936 - February 20, 2015
Obituary
MADISON – Harry Williams "Willie" passed away in his sleep surrounded by family and friends at Agrace Hospice on Feb 20, 2015. He was born in Woodville, MS on Nov 10, 1936. Harry was preceded in death by his maternal grandmother Margaret, Uncle Nathan, mother Matilda and his brothers. Harry and his family were sharecroppers who planted and picked cotton. Harry enlisted in the colored Army and was honorably discharged in 1957. After his discharge he bought his mother a house and was invited by friends to go to California, New York or Wisconsin.
He chose Madison, WI. Harry lived on the Southside of Madison. His friends were Mighty Fine, Art Thomas, Lil Lawrence, Big Lawrence, Jabo, William Powell, Fred and Peter Banks and Finess. Harry was united in marriage on September, 1961 to Carol Lewis of Beloit. The couple had three children, Cherie, Colette, and Reed. The family moved to Rutledge St on the Eastside of Madison in 1966. Harry worked for William Powell cleaning, Bob & Gene's and the UW Hospital Physical Plant. After 29 yrs at the UW, Harry retired in protest at the age of 55.
Harry was an avid card and pool player. He had many pool shooting friends Harry enjoyed music from an early age and watching football, basketball and baseball. He also enjoyed children. His own, his grandchildren, visits from Charlie Harroll's children and any children that happened to be around.
Harry is survived by his ex-wife Carol Fischer, her family the Forrestals, his oldest daughter Brenda Williams, her daughter Simone, daughter Cherie, daughter Colette (Tim Alexander), son Reed (Linda Stude), Reed's children Megan & Austen, family friend John Nezda and the Black Boy family.
Harry was a good friend, husband, father and grandfather. He will be greatly missed by all.
His family would like to express their appreciation for the care and respect received by Harry from Agrace Hospice, Rebecca House of Agape, Hannah's House, the Woodman's cart man, John Bryd, Ann Dorschel, DCHS, and Officers Howard J. Payne and Richard Friday, MPD. A special mention and heartfelt thanks go out to Dairyland management and employees, Carol from Sundown and staff, Officer James Milton, MPD and Dr. Tal Herbsman
Memorials can be made in Harry's name to a charity of your choice.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date yet to be determined.