Franklin Delano Williams of Sayreville, New Jersey died on October 20, 2020 after a long illness, leaving behind a devoted family and an exemplary history of service to the United States of America, the City of New York and his community.
Born on January 30, 1935, in Harlem, Franklin was a true product of the City of New York. He was baptized at St. Aloysius Roman Catholic Church and attended Cardinal Hayes High School in the Bronx. After graduation, Franklin served with dignity in the U.S. Navy and then successfully became one of the very few African Americans in the New York City Fire Department. He became "one of the Bravest" for over 20 years, a member of Engine 211 in Brooklyn, until he retired with a disability. He kept active with the Vulcan Society and sought to attract other people of color to the service and make the FDNY an institution more reflective of the City it serves. Franklin’s contributions long exceeded his retirement; he was a fighter and pioneer, and a trailblazer in every sense.
A practicing Catholic, Franklin was empowered by his faith and by his loving family of whom he was so proud. He is survived by his wife Rosa; his sister Barbara; his daughters Pier and Angela, son-in-law NYC Councilman I. Daneek Miller; his grandchildren Amber, Krystal, Jade, Janiel and Gregory; and his great-granddaughter Ryan. Franklin is preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Louise; his son Michael; niece Valerie; and grandson Andre.
Franklin remained active until his final illness and will forever be remembered a true Hero of New York City and beloved by his family and friends. May he rest in peace, beloved and enshrined in our hearts forever.
Services will be held Tuesday, October 27, 2020 from 4pm to 8pm at Krowicki McCracken Funeral Home, 2124 East Saint George Ave, Linden, NJ. A private burial will be held on Wednesday, October 28, 2020. Condolences may be sent to www.krowickifuneralhome.com for the Williams family.
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