Herbert Williams

Mr. Herbert Allen Williams affectionately known as “Herbie” began his earthly journey in life on May 9, 1957 in Saginaw, Michigan, the son of Marion and Olaska Williams. On Saturday, November 13, 2021 while surrounded by his loving family he entered the kingdom of Heaven at the age of 64 years.

Herbert gave his life to Christ at an early age at Williams Temple COGIC while under the leadership of the late Bishop Herbert J. Williams. Herbert was Bishop’s namesake. While serving as pastor’s aide, Herbert received the anointing to serve with love and great compassion for God. Herbert was a born-again believer of the Lord and he made sure everyone in his family was introduced to Jesus Christ. He served in many capacities in several ministries. With a humble heart Herbie served his beloved pastors Philip and Sandy Ortega at Spirit Filled Lighthouse Church where he was a faithful member. Herbert was the only boy of four siblings and he loved his sisters dearly. The Williams family was so close that no one could come between them. After the passing of his mother, Herbie became the father figure and the protector of his family. He was the patriarch of the family.

Herbert attended Saginaw Public Schools. He was often called “Church Boy” at Arthur Eddy Junior High and Saginaw High School. Herbert was a dedicated employee of STARS retiring after 24 years service. People often called him their favorite bus driver.

Herbert was a collector of cufflinks and ties. In honor of his memory, the pallbearers and family members are wearing those ties today. He loved traveling and shopping with his sister Sharrie. Herbie enjoyed finding hidden treasures at several thrift stores locally or while traveling abroad. He never left a store without finding something for someone else. Giving was his heartbeat. Let’s not forget he was always up for a good meal. Everyone close to Herbie knew not to mess with him and his food! He loved baking mouthwatering, slap-yo-mama pound cakes.

He had a million dollar smile that would light up the darkest room. Herbert was the ultimate servant of the Lord. He loved life and lived it to the fullest while always showing great humility and compassion for others. Herbert brought structure, wisdom, knowledge and understanding to the body of Christ. Many who knew him will remember him for the genuine love he gave.

Gone too soon but never forgotten, his loving and wonderful presence will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him.
He leaves to cherish his memory two loving sisters, Marion Marie(Kevin)Bradley and Sharrie Williams Crawford; one brother, Arnell (Heather)Williams; stepfather, Don Allen Jelks; godson, Jalian Maddlock; six nieces, Natasha (Ronald)Jones, DaQuiana ‘Lyn Griffin, Aerial Brewster, Danisha Williams, Jewel Allen and Danyelle (Will)Hillman; thirteen nephews, Oscar Williams, Edward (Keisha)Jones, Clinton Berry Bonds III, Charles Allen III, Isaiah Bonds, Aiden Leach Bonds, Charles Allen IV, Marquavis Casey, Oscar Williams Jr., Edward Williams, CJ Jones, Dominique and Ondreaus Williams; cousins, Paulett Booker, Arna Gray, Katherine Hamilton and Tony Luffbough; godsisters, Dietra (Rollow)Maddlock, Linda (Robert) Reid, Terry L. West, Carlis Jackson and Tonya Sims; godbrothers, Tony Sims and Brian Jackson; his BFF, James (Ava)Weston; many other relatives and friends including special friends, Nancy, Mary, Gwen, Denise, Pam, Booney and Angel Dottery, Otha Barnett and Bro. Dan.

Herbert was preceded in death by his mother, Marion Williams Jelks, father, Olaska Williams, sister, Andrea Williams Jones and brother in love, Norman “Pops” Crawford.

The family wishes to express special thanks to Pastor Philip Ortega and the Spirit Filled Lighthouse Church family, Pastor Hurley Coleman, Apostle James Glenn, Mother May, Edna, Cynthia, Jeanie, Angie and Audrey Bradley, Covenant Healthcare nurses, Alexis and Isaac, Ivan E. Phillips and the staff of Paradise Funeral Chapel. A very special thank you to the musicians, directors and singers both near and far, for your love and dedication for Herbert’s Homegoing Celebration.