William “Billy” Joseph Williams, 47, the beloved son, father, brother, uncle and friend, was called home to our Lord too soon on Sept. 5, 2017. He was taken from our arms, though never from our hearts.
He was born Aug. 29, 1970 in Clearfield. He was a 1989 graduate of the West Branch High School.
He was an avid lover of hunting, fishing, and sports. He lettered in wrestling, football and baseball, and his talents so outstanding they won him a baseball scholarship to OKCU.
In 1990, he played in the NJCAA World Series in Allegheny. In 1994, he was drafted as a minor league baseball pitcher, beginning his career in Erie and then relocating with the team to Johnstown and finally Springfield, Ill.
Through all obstacles, he and his baseball brothers went on to win three consecutive championships.
He was full of life and had the gift of making others laugh and helping them see life in a different light. He had a free spirit and would help a stranger with his last dime.
He leaves behind his cherished daughter, Madison and sons, Cameron and Gavin; mother, JoAnn Cirillo Bailor; father and step-mother, George “Peach” and Sandra Williams; sisters, Georgette, who’s married to Michael Eirich, and Jolene Hummel; brothers, Scott and Shane Williams; former spouse, Emma Lienhardt, the mother of Madison; numerous nieces and nephews; many cousins and extended family; and many friends who were like his family.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Don and Mary Jane “Checkbook” Williams, Chester and Beatrice Bailor and James and Margaret Turner.
Family and friends are invited in celebrating his life from 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday at the Bennett & Houser Funeral Home, Clearfield.
The Celebration of Life Service will be held at 5 p.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Jim Hollister officiating.
The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in the name of Madison Williams to the funeral home.
Online tributes can be made at www.bennettandhouser.com or www.mem.com.
Bennett & Houser Funeral Home Inc., is in charge of arrangements, Clearfield.