Ervin Junior Williams

Ervin Junior Williams, was born in Sampson County, North Carolina on December 28, 1954. He retired from his earthly service and answered Gods call on June 20, 2012. He attended school in the Sampson County School system. In May of 1973, Ervin entered the military at the age of (19) nineteen. He served in two branches of the military, United States Marine Corps and United States Army. He obtained the rank of E-7 in the army and E-9 in the Marine Corps (Gunnery Sergeant. His military career included several special operation and the duties of a Special Forces Assistant Operations and Intelligence Sergeant. Ervin served two tours in Vietnam and other conflicts. Ervin received several decorations and medals during his military career. He received an honorable discharge in 1985. After serving in the military, he was employed as a heavy equipment operator and a long distance truck driver. He also worked at Burlington Mills in Erwin, NC as a weaver between enlistment periods.

Ervin joined Chapel Hill Missionary Baptist Church Autryville, NC at an early age, after returning from the military he joined Elizabeth Missionary Baptist Church and served on the Deacon Board. Ervin was a proud and active member of Martin Luther King, Jr. Masonic Lodge No. 29, Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Arizona. He took great pride in training new brothers. His hobbies included bowling which afforded him the opportunity to play in several bowling leagues. He also was a devoted cyclist; he would ride his bicycle daily.

Ervin was known by his family and friends as one who would make you laugh. He was a comedian in his own right. If you needed someone to lift your spirits Ervin was the man. If you needed someone to have your back Ervin was the man. He was known for his strength and compassion. Even during his illness he tried to keep others happy and comfortable.

Ervin leave to cherish his memory, his precious wife Joan Boyer Williams, his mother Virginia Williams, Whiteville, NC.; daughters: Retina Simmons of Wilmington, NC and Rhonda Richardson of Phoenix, Arizona; two sons: Kevin Graves and Siaka Boyer of Phoenix, Arizona; nine grandchildren: Darius, Trinity, Natashya, JonMichael, Iisha, Ayanna, Amirah, Aaliyah and Jeremy ; two brothers: Gary A. (Marylyn) Williams and George E. (Linda) of Godwin, NC and one sister; Gabrilla Ann (Charles) Garrett of Whiteville, NC. One brother-in-law: Limual Johnson of Hampton, Virginia; a host of nieces, nephews and cousins; one special cousin, James Franklin Williams of Clinton; Also one paternal aunt, Margaret Williams Autry of Salemburg, NC as well as many friends and love ones; including one special friend, Byron Brooks, of Phoenix, Arizona.