Joseph Williams

Joseph Williams ( affectionately called Papa Joe) departed this world January 5, 2026 in

Hospice care in Raleigh NC. Joseph Williams transitioned into eternal peace with our Lord and

Savior Christ Jesus. Born to Claude and Ossie Williams in Bentonville township as one of six

children. Joseph Williams was a resident of Perrycreek Rehabilitation Center prior to hospice

care where he enjoyed a full and active life engaging staff and fellow clients with daily

conversations about his faith and occasional ,”words of wisdom.”

Joseph Williams leaves behind his doting spouse of over 50 years , Shirley A. Williams of

Smithfield NC and one of his caregivers until her being incapacitated during 2019. Her loyalty

and constant devotion to her husband is not to be undermined nor disregarded . She was by his

side until the very end as his wife. Thereafter, it was Billy Williams (Gail ) caregiver and Shirley

Frederick who took the role to ensure he had what he needed and the decisions on his health

were continued as needed during hospitalization.Joseph and Shirley Williams have two children

through their union. Minister Shirley M. Frederick(Jeffrey-deceased) of the resident #8 Finney

Drive Smithfield NC and Pastor Billy Williams (Gail) Williams of Danville VA .One notable

mention is Terry Eldridge(Lugenia) of Four Oaks NC . In conjunction with grandchildren were

Anjanette Frederick, Sarah Frederick, Cameron Walker, Cierra Shirley Irvin, nieces , nephews

and host of friends.

Joseph Williams spent the majority of his life in his beginning as a farmer on land his parents

(Claude & Ossie Williams) owned.While continuing to support the family he would later become

employed at Johnson & Johnson textiles of Benson NC where he maintained employment .

Afterward, due to numerous health-related conditions he would be resolved to disability and

would volunteer with Johnston Community College in the horticulture and garden (for he was

gifted with gardening). Joseph Williams is predeceased in death by Jimmy Williams ,Edna

Williams, and Robert Williams Sr. Two living siblings are Melvin Williams of Clayton NC and

Roberta W Merritt of Goldsboro NC