Published: July 08, 2009 12:12 am      

Rev. Dr. Ray Williams Sr.

Rev. Dr. Ray C. Williams Sr., pastor of Bethel A.M.E. Church in Greenville for 21-plus years, passed away peacefully at home on July 3, 2009.

Ray had a warm and inviting smile; people drew close to him because of this smile and his friendly demeanor. Even though Ray was a minister, Ray never put his position and title over God’s work of helping others.

He earned a BS in education at Ouachita Baptist University and a master’s divinity degree at Payne Theological Seminary. Rev. Williams was an Air Force chaplain, major (Meritorious Service Medal), State of Texas licensed chemical dependency counselor, and a State of Texas licensed marriage and family therapist.

Ray is survived by sons Ray C. Williams Jr. and Everett Williams; his mother, Mrs. Gustell Williams; sisters Hazel Stewart, Rose Seals, Gwen Davis, Juanita Matlock and Linda Perry; and a brother, John Williams.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Rev. Cynthia E. Williams; a son, Timothy Williams; and his father, Alexander Williams.

A viewing is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.Friday at Cozine & Tarver Funeral Home in Geenville and from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at Bethel A.M.E. Church, 2109 Wesley Street in Greenville, with another viewing to be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at the church.

His funeral service will immediately follow the Saturday viewing.