Arthur Williams Jr.'s Obituary
Arthur Lee Williams Jr. was born on October 28, 1948, in Waterbury, Connecticut, to the late Arthur Lee Williams Sr. and Reverend Betty (Williams) Saunders. He transitioned peacefully on January 24, 2026, in Redwood City, California, surrounded by his loving family.
Arthur grew up in Waterbury, where he attended public schools and graduated from Wilby High School. A standout basketball player, he was selected by the New Haven Register as an All-Star in 1968. His remarkable talent on the court drew high praise from a sports reporter for the Waterbury Republican, who wrote: “Williams has been as good a rebounder as any this reporter has seen. If it’s defense you want, Art can block shots and play a man as tightly as anyone. Offensively, Williams must average about three or four tap-ins a game, and his driving has to be seen to be appreciated.”
Arthur’s basketball prowess earned him a full scholarship to Morris Harvey College in Charleston, West Virginia, where he competed athletically and studied academically. He later pursued his education at Mattatuck Community College, earning an Associate of Arts degree.
Arthur began his professional career in Waterbury, teaching in the Waterbury School District and coaching youth basketball at the Pearl Street Neighborhood Center. In 1987, he relocated to Oakland, California, where he went on to serve with distinction as a peace officer for the Alameda County Probation Department. Over a 28-year career, Arthur was deeply committed to service, mentorship, and making a positive impact in his community.
Arthur’s relationship with God and his spirituality were deeply important to him. His personal walk with God was strong and meaningful, something he reflected on often. His faith helped guide him through life’s challenges and shaped the strength, love, and perspective he shared with those around him.
Arthur found joy in life’s simple, meaningful moments. He loved a good game of chess, enjoyed swimming, and could easily spend hours talking sports with anyone willing to listen. He was a passionate fan of UConn Huskies basketball, the Golden State Warriors, and the Oakland Raiders.
He also loved to read and was especially drawn to Black history, biographies, and keeping up with the daily newspaper. Music filled his life as well, and he found great joy in listening to the Mississippi Mass Choir and The Persuasions.
Family was the center of Arthur’s world and the source of his greatest happiness. He treasured every opportunity to gather with loved ones, sharing meals, laughter, and stories that created lasting memories. His children and grandchildren were his pride and joy, and he showed his love by being present for life’s important milestones— births, weddings, graduations, birthdays—as well as the quiet, everyday moments, like a phone call just to check in and say hello. His big bear hugs, deep belly laughs, and honest humor live on in the hearts of all who loved him and are already deeply missed.
Those memories and the love behind them, remain a lasting part of his legacy.
Arthur was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Barbara Williams-Richards.
He leaves to cherish his memory: his partner, Carolyn Thomas-Wingate; his former wife, LiQueattee Brooks; his children, Cheron (Zelda) Smith Sr., Doshia (Tash) Barrow-Williams, and Arthur Lee Williams III; his sisters, Paulette (James II) Turner, Linda Randolph, Gloria Williams, and Patricia Saunders; his grandchildren, Taylan Lee Barrow-Williams, Teagan Barrow-Williams, Cheron (Krislyn Parks) Smith Jr., Mya (Roque) Solorio-Aguilar, and Ahlijah (Israel) Cabadas; along with nieces, nephews, extended family, and a host of dear friends.
Arthur’s life was a testament to devotion, resilience, and love. Through every season of life, he remained steadfast in his faith, deeply committed to his family, and generous with his care for others. We take comfort in knowing he is at peace and reunited with loved ones who have gone before him. His legacy of strength, faith, and love will continue to guide and inspire all who carry his memory in their hearts. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.
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