Ernest James Williams

Mr. Ernest J. Williams, Jr., 73, passed away peacefully at Hospice House in South Bend on January 19, 2020 after battling an extended illness. Ernest was born on December 12, 1946 in Memphis, TN to the late Ernest J. Sr. and Climmie Williams.

Ernest was baptized at an early age and received his formal education from Washington High School. He later graduated from Ivy Tech and retired from his position as a roofer with Midland Engineering after many years of faithful service. Ernest also worked security for Majestic Security, drove for Yellow Cab and worked as a bartender. He was involved in several community groups, playing pool for AmVets and maintaining his membership with Naptown Riders. Ernest cherished time spent with his loved ones and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Ernest is survived by fourteen of his children, as well as their significant others: Tonya Williams, Ernie Lamont Hicks, Jennifer Williams, Ernest Williams, Roxanne Starks, Ernest Lamont Taylor, Corey Williams, Charles Punchice Jackson, Robert Williams, Larry Williams, Angie Harris, Brittany Williams, Jackie Williams and Tevon Williams; 42 grandchildren; 38 great-grandchildren; the love of his life and long-time significant other, Sheila Blakley; siblings Earl Harris, Jimmy Williams, Robert Williams, Elorse Linda McClain, Jeannie Johnson and Erma Franks; as well as a host of extended family members and friends. In addition to his parents, Ernest was preceded in death by a son, Ernie Williams; siblings Earcel Nance, Charlie Williams, Roy Harris, and Benny Williams.

Services for Mr. Ernest J. Williams will be held on Wednesday, January 29, 2020 at 1:00 PM at Palmer Funeral Homes – West Chapel, 2702 Lincoln Way West, South Bend, IN 46628. Friends may call on the family for visitation for one hour prior to services at the funeral home. Rev. Brian Martin to officiate. Online expressions of sympathy may be left at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.