Emanuel Williams

Life Reflections of Emanuel Williams

Emanuel Williams was born on June 16, 1937, in Anniston, AL. He was lovingly raised by his mother, Grace Black, his grandmother, Daisy Gholston, and his aunt Florine Terrell. Emanuel later moved to Chicago with his mother and graduated from high school in Evanston, IL.

On December 15, 1962, Emanuel married Patricia Scott, and together they welcomed two beautiful daughters, Pamela Patricia and April-Star. In June of 1973, Emanuel married Shirley Harris. Their marriage lasted for forty-four years until her passing in 2017.

Emanuel dedicated over thirty years to International Great Lakes Shipping, where he served as a longshoreman, supervisor, and union steward. He enjoyed spending time with friends, playing golf, and cards, and was known for his impeccable style. After retiring, he could often be found at McDonald’s during the day, enjoying coffee and solving the world’s problems with friends, and in the evenings, engaged in card games and more discussions on global matters.

Emanuel passed away on June 7, 2024, just days before his 87th birthday. He leaves behind cherished memories for his daughters, Pamela Williams and April Williams-Luster; son-in-law Stephen Luster; brother-in-law Levy Johnson, Jr; niece Kiondra Bohanon; special friends/brothers Jessie Legget, Robert Warfield, James Farrell, and Bruce Haralson; his Villa of Windsor Park family; and numerous cousins, friends, and neighbors who loved him dearly.

Emanuel is reunited in peace with his wife Shirley, mother Grace, Aunt Florine, and cousins Luvenia, John Dee, Sonny, Dot, and Gin.