Gerald Bennett Williams, 77, of Butner peacefully passed away Monday, February 26, 2024, surrounded by his wife and children.
Born in Durham County, NC on September 11, 1946, he was the son of the late James Millard Williams and Nellie Christine Bennett Williams.
Gerald proudly served in the United States Navy aboard the U.S.S. Freemont where he met many friends whom he kept in touch with over several decades. Following his service, he returned to his hometown of Butner and married his devoted wife of fifty-four years, Peggy O'Neal Williams. Gerald was a plumber by trade, and always working with his hands, never had a shortage of hobbies or interests. He loved building radio control model airplanes from blueprints, building custom stereo speakers, and driving up and down country roads to find a rare bottle of bourbon which he loved to gift to friends and family. He never stopped learning and would spend hours reading and researching a topic that piqued his interest.
One of Gerlad's greatest joys was his four grandsons who called him "Papa." He spent hours taking them on "tractor" rides on his John Deere lawn mower and teaching them to shoot BB guns.
The family will receive friends and family Thursday, February 29, 2024, from 12:00-1:00 p.m. at Butner Presbyterian Church, where his family were founding members. Funeral services will be held immediately after beginning at 1:00 p.m. in the sanctuary. His brother, Paul Williams, will be officiating the service. Burial will follow at South Granville Memorial Gardens in Stem.
Survivors include his wife, Peggy O'Neal Williams; daughter, Elizabeth "Beth" Shull (Joseph); son, John "Ryan" Williams (Kristie); grandsons, Walker Shull, Webb Shull, Wyatt Williams and Hayes Williams; four brothers, his twin, James Williams, Roger Williams, Millard Williams and Paul Williams; a stepbrother, Roger Williamson; a sister, Christina Williams and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family. In addition to his parents, he was proceeded in death by one brother, Mark Williams.
The family would like to especially thank Gerald's brothers, Roger and Paul, who would spend countless hours caring for him during his brave fight with dementia. With his loving wife by his side, Gerald was able to stay in his home until his final days.
Flowers are accepted.
Arrangements are by Sossamon Funeral Home of Creedmoor. Online condolences may be made at www.sossamonfuneralhome.com.