Bernell Williams

RICHMOND, Va. – Bernell Williams, 60, entered eternal rest at the VCU Hospital, Richmond, on Monday, March 3, 2008.

Born Aug. 4, 1947, in Rimini, he was the oldest of six sons born to the late George and Sarah “Gallie” Williams. He received his education in the public schools of Clarendon and Sumter counties. Seeking a better way of life, he migrated to Richmond in 1968 and found work for the past 20-plus years, where he was employed with Hardee in the maintenance department. He attended St. Phillip UME Church as a child and joined several years ago.

He is survived by a loving daughter Ada (Carlos) Sanchez of Richmond; two brothers, C.L. (the Rev. Katie) Williams of Sumter and James (Pricilla) Williams of Thomasville, N.C.; two aunts, Ella Carter and Edith Brown; six nephews; four nieces; and a host of relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by a sister, Tiny M. Lincoln, and three brothers, George Lee, Elder “L.D.” and Elijah “Mickey” Williams.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, March 8, 2008, at St. Phillip UME Church in Pinewood with Pastor Lawrence Myers, Bishop Leroy T. James, the Rev. Mary L. Brailsford, the Rev. Dr. Aurelia G. Hill and the Rev. Katie Williams.

Burial followed in the church cemetery.

Community Funeral Home of Sumter was in charge of these arrangements.