(amended) KNOXVILLE – Nelson ‘Rick’ Williams left his earthly body on Saturday, Feb. 9, 2019, after a brief battle with cancer. He was born on February 3, 1952, and celebrated last birthday at his home with a party on Super Bowl Sunday, Feb. 3, 2019.
Rick died as he lived, accepting or giving an excuse, apology, or sympathy. In his last days, his conversation remained the same. From “I’m good and better than most,” to most recent, “I feel good and I’m living my best life. God been good to me.” All while reflecting on his life with a chuckle; the good, the bad, and the ugly. When the conversation turned to him, as his physical health declined, his response was, “I feel good, I’m living my best life! God been so good to me.” He made his peace with his Maker.
He was preceded in death by parents Charles Edward and Myrtle M. Webb Williams; older brothers Charles Donald ‘June’, Labon Raphael ‘Ray’ Williams and his youngest sibling of the eight Cynthia Diane Williams. Maternal uncle and aunt: James ‘Jim’ Webb of Knoxville, and Malvenia Stoudenmire of Denver, Colorado. Paternal uncle and aunts: Theodore, Annie Mae, Williams, and Francis Williams Parker Bonner all of Knoxville, and Thelma Williams of San Bernardino, CA, and others.
He leaves to celebrate his legacy a son John Russell Watts of Austin, Texas and a daughter Aijatana (I’tana) Williams of Knoxville; grandchildren John, Jr., and Jonaya of Austin, and Royal Prysork of Knoxville; stepson William Johnson and generations of nieces, nephews, cousins, and so many friends.
Rick also leaves 3 sisters who he dearly loved. According to Rick, he called Patricia ‘Patty’ when he was in trouble or needed financial support; Jacqueline ‘Jackie,’ when he needed a place to get-away or to regroup; and Maxine was his caregiver for almost 2-years through his battle with cancer, and ‘Jasmine’ Clifford Williams of California.
Rick also leaves Snoop Dogg, his Jack Russel Terrier and faithful companion of 14-years.
The family will receive friends 11am – noon on Saturday, February 16 at Jarnigan’s Chapel followed by services officiated by Rev. Steve Simpson. www.jarnigansmortuary.com. His cremains will be buried in the family plot near his mother, sister and grandfather’s grave sites at New Grave Cemetery at a future date.