Gone to soon, but always in our hearts
We wished we had more time. However, on Thursday night, March 27, 2025, Ronald Edward Williams, affectionately known as Ronnie or Ron, passed away at the age of 60, surrounded by his loving family and close friends.
Ronnie was born on December 13, 1964, in Nuremberg, Germany, his father was stationed. He was the only son of Arneal Williams (deceased 1998) and his devoted mother, Berniece Williams. As the youngest member of the family, he embraced his role. His father's military service allowed him the privilege of traveling and living in many places across the United States, experiences that shaped his character.
After his father retired from the military, the family settled in Columbia, SC, where Ronnie spent most of his life. He attended Eau Claire High School through his junior year before transferring to Columbia High School for his senior year, from which he proudly graduated. In 1983, he joined the Army, trained as a cook, and was stationed at Fort Wainwright, Alaska. Although his tour was brief, he became a proud veteran, actively participating in veteran events and proudly wearing hats and t-shirts that displayed his support for fellow veterans.
Upon returning to Columbia, SC, after his service, Ronnie worked in various jobs. His culinary skills led him to work in several restaurants around Columbia, and he became the primary cook in his household, a role his sisters willingly ceded to him. He was a true “jack of all trades,” learning and adapting through observation. His versatility allowed him to become a successful moving professional, often moving in and out of town for work. One of his most memorable jobs was assisting with the packing and moving of the newly elected President Clinton in Arkansas in 1983 for his transition to the White House.
Ronnie had a zest for life, enjoying entertaining friends, playing cards, attending and hosting cookouts, watching sports, and keeping in touch with people he had met over the years. His warm spirit and infectious laughter will be deeply missed.
He is survived by his three sons, Ronald Antwan Lindsay, Ronnie Devon Williams, and Brandon Edward Williams, all residing in and around Columbia, SC. He is also survived by his mother, Berniece Williams, of Columbia, SC; his sisters, Barbara Williams Johnson of Woodbridge, VA, and JacquelinWashington of Norwalk, CT; his four grandchildren; his nephew, Ryon Lyndon Johnson of Woodbridge, VA; and numerous cousins throughout the United States.
When we think of Ronnie, we will remember his sly smile and good nature. A “Celebration of Life” ceremony will be held on Saturday, April 5, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Myers Mortuary & Cremation Services, located at 2624 Alpine Road, Columbia, SC 29223. He will be interred at Fort Jackson Cemetery, 4170 Percival Road, Columbia, SC 29229 on Monday, April 7, 2025 at NOON.
His family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and support staff for their compassion and care during Ronnie's final days.
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