Kenneth Wayne Williams, 73, of Hartfield, passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home on Friday, Dec. 2, 2016.
He was born and raised on Gwynn’s Island in Mathews County where his family roots ran deep. After meeting the love of his life, he called Middlesex County his home for the last 53 years.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Presley W. and Minnie Rowe Williams, and his “special” son, Kenny, whom he loved and adored and who taught him to appreciate the little things life had to offer.
He is survived by his loving wife, Margaret Butler Williams (Sissie); his daughter, Tammy Williams Ballantyne, and her husband Glenn; two granddaughters, Maggie Ballantyne Sammarco and her husband Chadd and Mollie Lee Ballantyne; his great-grandson, Preslee Joseph Sammarco, who was the apple of his eye; his sister, Shirley Williams Hudgins; his aunt, Ruby Rowe Akins; his dear friend, J.C. West, and his beloved chocolate lab “Shad.”
Kenneth enjoyed a good life with his family and friends. He was a member and past deacon of Harmony Grove Baptist Church where he loved his church family. He was a member of the Donovan Masonic Lodge, where he served as the Master twice. He was honored to serve as the youngest Master in Virginia at the time. He had the destine pleasure to serve on the Middlesex County Board of Supervisors for 18 years. He also served on the Middlesex County Planning Commission as well as the Middlesex County Social Services Board. He was appointed by Governor Gilmore to serve on the Virginia Marine Resources Commission as well as the Potomac River Fisheries Commission. He was also a member and past President of the Virginia Watermen’s Association.
Kenneth was a lifelong waterman and businessman who loved being on the water and shared many stories of the days he spent doing what he loved. Kenneth had many titles and served on many Boards, but his greatest titles were “Husband,” “Daddy,” and “PaPa.” He always said his family was his greatest gift. His love and faith in God was important to him, and it showed in the way he lived his life. Material things were not important to him, but he was always willing to help a friend; that was his pleasure. Kenneth was a pillar in his community, and he shall be greatly missed.
A funeral service was held at Harmony Grove Baptist Church on Monday, Dec. 5 at 2:30 p.m., with a graveside burial service with Masonic Rites directly following. Visitation with the family began at 1 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked to please make donations to the National Kidney Foundation or the Middlesex County Volunteer Rescue Squad.