Obituary of Ollie Williams

Ollie Louis Williams, the patriarch of the Williams family, left his earthly home on May 11, 2011, three days after his 91st birthday. A longtime Troup resident, his graveside services, with military honors, will be at 10:00 am, Saturday, May 14, at the Union Grove Cemetery, Troup with Reverend David Banks officiating, under the direction of Cottle Funeral Home, Troup. Mr. Williams lived a long and full life. He was born May 8, 1920, in Brumley in Upshur County to Mack and Bessie Keel Williams. His childhood was cut short when he had to quit school in the 4th grade to support his mother and sisters. Mr. Williams was a proud member of the Greatest Generation. He joined the army when World War II began. A young farm boy from the 1940's knew very little of places like the Philippines, Okinawa, and Guam. He soon learned. Once again his dedication to duty paid off. Wounded twice, he won numerous medals. Among them were: two Purple Hearts, the American Theater Campaign medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign medal with two Bronze Stars and one Bronze Arrowhead, the Philippine Liberation Ribbon with two Bronze Stars and Victory Ribbon. After the war, Mr. Williams married the love of his life, Doris Toole. Their marriage lasted 59 ½ years until her death in 2006. In addition to his wife and parents he was preceded in death by two sisters, Jewell Witcher and Bea Sieber and a brother, A Williams. A large and loving family remains. They include a daughter and son-in-law, Glenna and Lindsay Marshall, Arp; two sons and a daughter-in-law, Roy and Kim Williams, Longview and Jerald Williams, Troup; two sisters, Maxine Childress and Ruby Brown, both of Tyler. Adding much joy to his life were seven grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. The family would like to thank Dr. Douglas Coltman and Kelly and Saundra for their dedication to both our parents over the years. A huge thank you to all the employees of Park Place for their love and care over the past year. Also Hospice of East Texas. We now know that there are truly angels on earth. The Family will receive friends at the funeral home from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm Friday, May 13.