Mr. Arthur R. Williams

Arthur Ray Williams, age 76, was born August 24, 1945, in Jacksonville, TX, to Elizabeth Christopher and Ezell Williams (who proceeded him in death). He departed this life, Tuesday morning, August 31, 2021. During Arthur Ray’s elementary years’, the family relocated to Chicago, Illinois. Arthur began his high school years at Tilden Technical High School in Chicago, Illinois. Mid-way through his 4-year journey he relocated to Wichita, Kansas, where he attended Wichita East High School. After graduation Ray pursued his dream of a career in pharmacy at The University of Kansas, on the Lawrence campus; later transferring to Friends University, in Wichita, Kansas. As many of us do in this life, Ray searched for what he truly wanted to pursue.

Ray went to work for Sherwin-Williams as a chemist, until the chemicals affected his health. After leaving Sherwin-Williams, Ray pursued a career with Boeing Aircraft. During his career at Boeing, he was chosen by the government to be part of the team to build the new Air Force One (1998), which carries our President’s to safe destination’s today. Ray was a man of many talents. He was especially gifted in wood working. During his high school years, he completed several beautiful pieces of furniture for his mother, grandmother and father.

The Ray we knew and loved before his health began to deteriorate, was a jokester, loving, caring and had a love for life. Though he worked for Boeing Aircrafts’, he loved the train. One of his favorite trips was a cross country (coast-to-coast) trip on Amtrak, with many two to three day stops along the way. Ray, we love you, and you will truly be missed.

Arthur Ray leaves to cherish his memory, his mother, Elizabeth Fields, his siblings, Elizabeth Franklin (Melvin), Robert Williams, Carol Arrington (Joseph), Michelle Mc Knuckles, Savannah O. Mc Knuckles (who proceeded him in death, November 8, 2020), Rhonda K. Mc Knuckles-Thomas, nieces and nephews, Mark Franklin, Andrea Clancy (Stephen), Marlayna White (Terry), David Stepney (Yahaira), Marquis Thomas (Hajar), Jonathan Arrington, Cynthia M. Thomas, Lisa Newman (Kevin), Montaque Smith, Jeremy Arrington (Kelly), Steven Williams (Shronda), and Rebecca Williams. There are also a host of great nieces (6), great nephews (8), aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family.

A Graveside Service will be held Thursday, September 9, 2021, 11:45am at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Visitation will be from 10am-11am. Service conducted by Watkins Heritage Chapel. Condolences may be shared on our website.

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