Charles Edward Williams Sr.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Charles E. Williams, Sr., 82, who left us on August 25, 2025. Born on March 23, 1943, to Theolester Josephine (Jemison) Williams and Joe Frank Williams, Sr., in Dayton, Ohio, Charles was a man whose legacy will be cherished by all who knew him.

At a young age, Charles and his family relocated to California, where he grew up and graduated from Balboa High School in 1960. His journey then took him into military service, where he proudly served in the United States Army from 1967 to 1973 before returning to Dayton, Ohio, to settle down.

Charles was known for his strong work ethic and dedication throughout his professional career. He pursued studies at Sinclair Community College and worked at Apex Tool & Die for many years, retiring in 1998. Afterward, he continued his commitment to service by joining Avis, where he worked for another 15 years until his retirement in 2024.

Charles is preceded in death by his parents, a son, Jeffery Williams, and a brother, Joe Frank Williams, Jr. He is survived by his devoted and loving wife of 60 years, Martha Williams; daughters: Shirley A. Williams and Jaimie Williams-O’Tey; son, Charles E. Williams, Jr.; brothers: Ronnie Jemison and John (Patsy) Williams; sister, Barbara Baskett; grandsons: Richard L. Moore, Clifford A. Nelson, Jr., Anthony Williams, Noah Williams, and Treyvin Williams; granddaughters: Brandais K. Artz, Yazmyne Williams, and Jaz Ann-Marie O’Tey-Manning; great-grandsons: Christopher Charles Artz and August Solomon Artz.

Charles also leaves to mourn his special friends, Leonard and Julia Price, who lovingly called him "Dad." They were like family to him, and their bond was a treasured part of his life. He also leaves behind his best friends: Ron and Debra Moore, Linda Davis, Grover Treawell, Kyle and Rose White, Mickey Davis, and his fishing buddy, Brother-in-law Major Winn.

In addition, Charles is survived by a host of nieces, nephews, other family members, and great friends who will cherish his memory.

Charles had a deep love for the great outdoors. He was an avid fisherman who relished time spent by the water and enjoyed camping under the stars. He was also the master griller at all family and friend gatherings, ensuring every get-together was filled with delicious food and wonderful memories. Charles will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Don’t weep too long for him—simply picture him on the banks of a lake, fishing pole in hand, at peace.

Funeral Service 11 am Thursday, September 11, 2025 at Calvary Missionary Baptist Church, 2067 N. Gettysburg Ave., Dayton, OH. Visitation 10 am- 11 am at which time family will receive friends. Interment Dayton National Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to House of Wheat Funeral Home. 

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