Freddie Lee Williams, Sr., a devoted father, proud U.S. Army veteran, and skilled craftsman, passed away peacefully on May 17, 2025, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, at the age of 92. 

Born in Havana, Gadsden County, Florida, on October 18, 1932, Freddie was the only son of Hosie Williams and Francis Hurns, both of whom preceded him in death. As a young boy, Freddie was raised with his grandparents, Willie Joe and Minnie Hurns, in a loving home alongside his mother, uncles—Alfonzo, Euelyn, Dede, and Bernard—and his aunt Lois, all of whom also preceded him in death. These early years helped shape the grounded and resilient man he would become. 

Freddie began school at the age of seven. He attended Pine Park Elementary and graduated from Pine Park High School in Gadsden County, Florida. In 1953, he was drafted into the United States Army and proudly served during World War II, including a tour in Germany. His service was a source of pride throughout his life, reflecting his sense of duty and strength of character. 

After completing his military service, Freddie returned to South Florida, where he began building a life rooted in family, resilience, and hard work. In 1962, following his marriage to Frances Oliver, Freddie purchased a home in Miami Gardens—a place that would become the anchor of his family for generations. That home remained his residence for the rest of his life, a symbol of the stability, dedication, and love he poured into those around him. 

Throughout the years, he became the proud father of ten children: Freddie Lee Williams II; Freddie Lee Williams, Jr., Kenneth Williams, and Deborah Williams (with Martha Palmer); Jennie Houston (with Ruby White); Regina Williams and Fredricka Marsh (with Frances Oliver); and Eric Williams, Frances Williams, and Erin Williams (with Eunice King). 

In addition to his biological children, Freddie also proudly became the father-in-law to Nathaniel Marsh, and lovingly cared for and helped raise his bonus children—Martha Daniels, Joyce Hampton, and the late Willie Harold Johnson—embracing them as his own and offering the same steadfast support, love, and guidance. 

Freddie shared meaningful relationships throughout his life, including his loving partnership with his long-time significant other, Arlene Nelson. Their bond brought him comfort, companionship, and joy in his later years. Arlene, too, preceded him in death, but her presence in Freddie’s life was one of deep affection and mutual devotion.