Howard Elvin Williams Jr.

Howard Elvin Williams, Jr., affectionately known as “Pick” to many in Annapolis—a nickname earned from his signature basketball move—passed away peacefully on April 13, 2025, at the age of 73 in Brooklyn, Maryland.

Howard was born on November 24, 1951, in Richmond, Virginia to Howard Elvin Williams, Sr. and Marcella Juanita Phillips Williams. He moved to Annapolis, Maryland, where he attended local grade schools and graduated from Annapolis Senior High School in 1970.

He went on to study art at Morgan State University, pursuing his dream of one day hosting his own art show. While at MSU, Howard became a proud member of Alpha Phi Omega National Service Fraternity. The fraternity’s core values—Leadership, Friendship, and Service—became guiding principles in Howard’s life.

Howards artwork has been featured in Annapolis area shows and galleries. In 1993, Howard was honored in Labor of Excellence: African American Business and Community Profile for his contributions and dedication. He continued to create art throughout his life, often sketching at home while listening to music—a peaceful combination that brought him joy. Even during his illness, Howard could often be found in his favorite chair, pencil in hand, capturing his thoughts and emotions on paper. Art remained his outlet, and he frequently worked on multiple pieces at once, each one a reflection of his unique perspective and creative spirit.

His previous union with Calla Boston was blessed with three children, Derrick (DJ) Harris, Durand Williams, Sr. and Dekira Williams, who carry on his legacy.

Howard dedicated more than 25 years of service to the State of Maryland, holding various roles within the Department of Health and Human Services, the Department of Natural Resources, and finally the Department of Juvenile Justice at the Charles H. Hickey, Jr. School. After retiring, Howard selflessly cared for his beloved mother-in-love, Arlene Mundell, until her passing.

His passion for mentorship and community outreach, especially with youth, extended well beyond the workplace. He actively volunteered with the Peninsula Athletic League (PAL) of Annapolis, where his sons DJ and Durand played football and basketball and his daughter Dekira was a cheerleader. Howard also gave his time to the Annapolis Optimist Clinic Basketball program and served as a youth mentor through the YWCA, offering guidance to troubled youth. He would continue to share his knowledge and wisdom with those he encountered.

A faithful member of Broadneck Asbury United Methodist Church, Howard was known for his charisma and larger-than-life presence. Whether you bumped into him at the store or a game, you’d likely find him sharply dressed from head to toe—hat, pressed slacks, stylish shades, one of his many watches, and always next to a gleaming car.

His cars were just as sharp as he was—always spotless, often gleaming enough for him to check his reflection. After purchasing his dream car, a green Corvette, Howard joined the Just Cruising Corvette Club, where he proudly participated in fundraising events to support local youth in the community. Later, he traded in the Corvette for his prized Chrysler 300, which quickly became his new favorite. You could always find him outside, lovingly wiping it down, making sure it stayed spotless.

Howard’s charm and playful spirit were magnetic, and on Good Friday, April 3, 1999, at Bill Dotson’s, that same personality won over the heart of the woman who would become his devoted wife, Cheryl, on September 3, 2017.

Howard loved sports and never missed a chance to enjoy a cold beer and a good game with family and friends. Whether it was cheering on his favorite teams or catching up with loved ones, those moments brought him joy.

Howard was preceded in death by his parents Howard Elvin Williams, Sr. and Marcella Juanita Phillips Williams; and mother-in-love Arlene Mundell.

He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife, Cheryl (Mundell) Williams; sons, Derrick (Lawanda) Harris and Durand (Katrice) Williams, Sr.; daughter, Dekira; nine grandchildren—Tierra, Laila, Madison, Dakoda, Micheal, Durand Jr., Kherington, Aubrey, and Daxon; loving sister, Valerie Neal; brothers-in-love, Ronald (June) Allen, Sr. and Dwayne (Crystal) Mundell; sister-in-love Pamela Woods friend-brothers, Gerald Stansbury and Dr. Randy Rowel; Pamela Johnson his “girlfriend,”; and a host of family and close friends who were dear to his heart.

Howard will be remembered for his generosity, his unmistakable style, his deep love for his family, and the powerful impact he made in the lives of so many.

A visitation for Howard will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025 from 10 AM to 11:30 AM with a funeral service to follow, located Gary L. Kaufman Funeral Home, 7250 Washington Blvd, Elkridge, MD 21075.