Rufus Lee Williams

07-12-1948 to 10-08-2023

Rufus Lee Williams transitioned to be with his heavenly Father, October 8,2023. Born July 12,1948, to James Williams and Mary Emma Payne in Aberdeen, Mississippi.

He was affectionately known as “Pike” or “Flug” to family and friends.

Preceded in death by mother, Mary Emma Payne; father, James Williams; sisters, Mary Helen Payne and Carylon Williams; brothers, Earnest and John Payne, Melvin and Billy Williams; son, Jeffrery Byrd.

Survived by devoted ex-wife, Ella Joe Williams; daughters, Lakisha (Leonard) Campbell, Chiquita Vonner, Mandi Williams; son, Michael Williams; brothers, James (Alma) Williams, Jimmy (Sherri) Payne, Roosevelt Williams, Michael Williams, Bobby and David Payne; sisters, Shirley Payne, Barbara Clark, Brenda Tate, Jennie (James) Smith, Sheryl (James) Smith, MaryAnne (Nathaniel) Hensley , Jackie Young, Annie Mae Bowens; grandsons, JeMichael (Korrina) Williams, Allen (Peewee) Roach, Elijah (Lijah) Roach, Jaden Williams, Bruce Vonner, Kobe Vonner, Delonte Simpson; granddaughters, Tatianna (Areece) Carson, Al’Isha Roach; bonus granddaughter, DaLeyah Brown; great-grandsons, Jacolby Williams, Kaison Williams, Princeton Williams, Carter Williams, Kaeden Lawrence; great-granddaughters, Asiah Hill , Alayna Williams; and devoted cousin, Emma Westfield, a host of beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Update to the funeral arrangements for Rufus Williams. The Knoxville funeral services have been cancelled. Funeral services will be held in Mississippi at a later date. Friends may sign a guestbook at Jarnigan and Son Mortuary.