Ernest Williams, Jr.

Ernest Williams, Jr., born on February 19, 1969, was a man whose faith was as deep as his love for life. Welcoming Jesus Christ into his heart at an early age, he was baptized by the late Rev. Elijah James Walker at the Galilee Baptist Church in Fairfield, AL, where he continued to worship under Pastor Rev. Cedric Hrabowski.

A proud graduate of Fairfield High School in 1987, Ernest fostered enduring friendships and memories that would stand the test of time. While at Fairfield, Ernest's heart sang in the choir, his hands drove the school bus, and his mind mastered the intricacies of being a certified mechanic.

After Fairfield, Ernest embarked on a journey to Alabama State University, where he was renowned for his spirit and his beloved 1971 Chevrolet Impala, affectionately known as the "Imp." Later, Ernest graduated from the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) with an Accounting degree, and during his senior year, he joined the Iota Nu Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc.

Ernest's work ethic was as strong as his passion for life. He demonstrated his dedication and precision in various roles at FedEx, Citizens Federal Bank, and UAB, contributing as a Staff Accountant, Financial Officer, and Business Officer.

Ernest's life was a vibrant tapestry of hobbies and interests. An aficionado of cars, he would spend Sundays exploring local car lots and watching car channels. A music lover at heart, he was often found DJing at weddings, parties, graduations, and more. Ernest's love for grilling was legendary, as he and his friends crowned themselves the "Tailgate Kings." He would seize any opportunity to grill, whether at home or the beach, waterpark, or an automatic tailgate. His passion for the Magic City Classic was unparalleled, taking a week's vacation around it each year.

Travel was another of Ernest's joys. He was always ready to "hit the slab," whether for a quick trip or a lengthy journey.

Ernest was preceded in death by his daughter, Ashley Nicole Williams; mother, Mary Earlene Miller; father, Ernest Williams, Sr; grandmother, Mattie Lee Lett; aunt, Sonja Lett Campbell; and uncles: Aaron Lett and Leon Lett.

He leaves behind his son, Da'rrell D. Williams; sisters, Wanda Denise Lett and Joyce Lett Rutledge (Nathaniel); his dear friend and companion, Claudia M. Hardy; one aunt, Mattie Inez Lett; uncles: Thomas James (Diane) Lett, Johnny B. (Annie Jean) Lett, and Robert Allen Lett, Sr; along with a host of cousins, nieces, and nephews. His bond with his Fairfield High School Class of 1987, including dear friends Mr. Charles Sanders and Mr. Andre Dortch, and his cherished "62nd Street" Fairfield family will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him.

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