Joe “Bear” Williams, 71, of Hartford, Alabama, passed away on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at Hartford Health Care.
Born on May 29, 1954, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Joe was the son of the late Richard and Gracie Watson Williams. Known affectionately as “Bear,” he was a devoted father, uncle, and grandfather whose big heart and good humor touched everyone he met.
A lifelong truck driver, Bear loved being on the open road, casting a fishing line, and sharing a good laugh. Known as a bit of a trickster, he never met a stranger and could make friends anywhere he went. Always ready to lend a helping hand, Bear’s kindness and generosity will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Gracie Watson Williams; brother, Richard Williams Jr.; and sister, Brenda Williams.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, November 6, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Bottoms Garden Chapel Funeral Home in Hartford.
Bear is survived by his loving wife, Catherine Williams of Hartford; children, Sadie Wheeler (Glen) of Virginia Beach, Virginia, Gracie Lynn Williams of Hartford, and Jason Williams (Linda Coslett) of Hartford; grandchildren, Trenton Thompson, Erin Hatcher, and Kadence Coslett, all of Hartford, as well as Christian Rhodes, Brandon Rhodes, and Kaylin Rhodes, all of Virginia Beach, Virginia. He is also survived by his sisters, Shirley Hobbs of Esto, FL, Donna Efird (Jerry) of Deland, FL, Joyce Rogers of Panama City, FL, Nancy Skipper (Dewayne) of Gritney, FL, and Mary Odom (Davy) of Chipley, FL; along with numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
