Sam Joseph Williams was born on June 6, 1951 to the late James and Mary Valentine Evans Wilson Williams. He passed away on January 10, 2026 at the age of 74 due to a prolonged illness at Chesapeake Regional Hospital.

Sam attended Saint Joseph's, Saint Mary’s, Norfolk Catholic High Schools. He was a proud graduate from Norfolk State University where he earned his B.S. Degree in Communication and was commissioned an officer in the US Army May 1974.

Sam served 20+ years in the US Army when he retired as a Major in 1995. After military retirement, Sam worked for E. V. Williams as Safety Coordinator, now known as Branch Group, he worked as Senior Safety Representative until his second retirement in 2016.

Sam was a life-long member of the Basilica of Saint Mary’s of the Immaculate Conception. He joined the Knights of Peter Claver on July 19th, 1997. He served as Grand Knight, the leader of Council 279. He also mentored the younger members, teaching them Parliamentary procedures. He was a true representative of Claverism.

Sam was a member of Norfolk State University Military Alumni Chapter. He was also a member of Norfolk State University Alpha Phi Omega Chapter Phi Mu 1970.

In addition to his parents, Sam was preceded in death by his sister Margaret G. Williams, son Keelan Williams, his brother, Charles Williams, and sister Helen Williams Edwards.

Sam is survived by his wife “lovely bride of 51 years” Mae Farmer Williams, son Keith Williams (Felicia), daughter Kesia Williams. Five grandchildren Alexander Williams, Alexis Singletary Martin, Keenan, Evan, and Layla Williams. His brothers, Edward Williams (Gail, deceased), Jim Williams (Josephine Johnson); his sisters, Martha Jones, Mary Williams Staten (Harry); and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Sam leaves a legacy of love for family, family gatherings, Saint Mary’s church family and NSU Marching Spartan Legion.

Alpha Phi Omega (APO) principles were Leadership, Friendship, and Service.

Sam exemplified all these qualities in regard to family, church, and friends.