Ernest "Ernie" Lee Williams

Ernie Williams, age 71, of New Albany, Indiana passed away on December 13, 2023 at UofL hospital surrounded by his loved ones. He was one of six children born to the late Ernest Elmer and Wanda Mae (Conrad Stocksdale) Williams on June 30, 1952. Ernie worked as a maintenance machinist and a union steward for Philip Morris for 30 years before retirement.

Ernie was a devoted husband, dad, Da (grandpa and great grandpa), and friend. He and Dianne (Wilson) married in 1972 and started raising their family of 3 daughters and 3 granddaughters (Abigail, Elsie, and Andrea). Ernie was a simple, hardworking man with a heart of gold. He was a strong believer in keeping his word and that actions speak louder than words. As a young father he enjoyed coaching softball and baseball that later turned into being a dedicated chauffeur and spectator of youth sports at his granddaughters and grandson sporting events. He enjoyed golfing, woodworking, vacationing at the beach, spoiling his dogs, and having a cold beverage with friends and family. He was a dedicated sports fan and enjoyed watching IU, Chicago Cubs, and NFL football. He was a man of many projects (personal and for others) and a self-taught handyman for all loved ones through the years. Last, but not least, Ernie, loved John Wayne, Gunsmoke, Andy Griffith, and “good” country music like Hank Williams Jr., George Jones, George Strait, and Randy Travis. Da and Mom-Mom built a life to be proud of and he will be missed by all of them.

Along with his parents, Ernie is preceded in death by sisters Alma (Don) King, Joyce (Don) Shouse, and Sharen Fraze.

He leaves behind his wife of 51 years, Dianne; children, Amy Jackey (Kevin), Sarah Williams (Mike Carozza), and Jennifer Brown-Williams; grandchildren, Abigail, Elsie (Damian) McDuffy, Andrea, Kayla, Taylor, Emily, and Jacob; great-grandchildren, Emmett and Theo; siblings, Jane Shaffer (Ronnie) and Charlie (Mary); Brother-in-law Bruce Wilson (Linda), and several nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

A celebration of life for Ernie will be held Tuesday, December 19, 2023 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Kraft Funeral Service, 2776 Charlestown Rd, New Albany, Indiana 47150.

Contributions in Ernie's memory may be made to New Albany Floyd County Animal Shelter.