Ralph Ellis Williams

Ralph Williams (86) son of the late Murray Samuel Williams and Ruth Cruze Wiliams, passed away peacefully into the arms of his Savior on January 25, 2025. 

A 1956 graduate of Maryville High School, Ralph served 7 years in the Army National Guard and retired from Alcoa Aluminum Company after 30+ years of service. 

Ralph had a passion for life that was evident in everything he did. A born and bred car enthusiast, he had a great love for Ford Mustangs and could fix just about anything. His mechanical skills were matched only by his kind heart and his comedic timing. Ralph's faith in Jesus was an integral part of his life, and he found community as a member of New Providence Primitive Baptist Church. The loss of his dear wife, Shirley, two years ago, left a deep void in his life, but his unwavering faith and the love of his family carried him through. 

He is survived by his sisters, Joyce Leo, Carolyn Williams and his brother, Joel Williams, beloved cousins, nieces, nephews and dear friends. 

He was a proud and loving father to his children, Michael Williams (and his wife Donna), Mark Williams, and Rebecca Willliams. He took immense joy in his grandchildren, Ethan Williams, Nicholas Smiley, and Chelsea Smiley, as well as their mother, Pattie Williams. Ralph's legacy will continue on through his great-grandchildren.

Ralph is preceded in death by his loving wife of 60 years, Shirley Clark Williams, with whom he shared a lifetime of cherished memories, a daughter-in-law Christy Williams, his parents and sister, Joanna McCall. 

Ralph will be remembered as a devoted husband, a steadfast father and grandfather, and a loyal friend to many. His kindness, wisdom, and especially his humor will be deeply missed. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Family will receive friends from 4:00pm until 6:00pm, Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at Smith Trinity Chapel. 1402 Tuckaleechee Pike, Maryville, TN. Funeral Services will be held at 6:00pm with Rev. Tommy Boring officiating. Family and friends will assemble for interment on Thursday, January 30, 2025 at 11:00am at New Providence Primitive Church Cemetery, 2633 Six Mile Road, Maryville, TN 

If desired, in lieu of flowers, donations may be given to New Providence Primitive Baptist Church. Smith Funeral and Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000, www.SmithFuneralandCremation.com.