Wykle Dewitt Williams, Jr. of Dothan passed away peacefully at his residence, surrounded by his family, on Thursday, March 19, at the age of 82, leaving behind a legacy of service, leadership, and compassion.
Wykle was born April 13, 1943, in Dothan, Alabama to the late Wykle D. Williams, Sr., and Justyne Gullage Mitchell. In 1961 he graduated from Central High School in Phenix City, Alabama. Wykle attended Wallace College and Auburn University, earning a degree in business. Additionally, he proudly served his country in the Naval Reserves and later in the United States Air Force, carrying that commitment to service throughout his life.
A passionate supporter of youth development, Wykle was actively involved with the Boys Club, where he made a lasting impact on countless young lives. He also dedicated many years to coaching football and baseball with the Dothan Dixie League, shaping young men not only as athletes but as confident and disciplined individuals.
Wykle was a respected figure in the Dothan business community for several decades, contributing to the operation and management of several prominent automotive dealerships. Known for his charisma and genuine care for others, he built lasting relationships with customers and colleagues alike. His dedication and talent were evident in his achievements, including setting a record for new car sales in a single month with fifty-two vehicles sold.
Continuing his lifelong commitment to protecting and serving others, Wykle served with honor in both the Dothan City Police Department and the Eufaula City Police Department. He served as one of the first motorcycle officers in Dothan, and his career in law enforcement was marked by integrity, courage, and a deep sense of responsibility to his community.
Wykle was preceded in death by his son, Wykle D. Williams III, known as “Trip.”
He is survived by his loving wife, Barbara Williams; his daughters, Sherry Gilley of Cottonwood, Camille Williams of Charleston, South Carolina, and Cynthia (James) Woodcox of Dothan; his sister, Kay (Mark) Strickland of Andalusia; and his grandchildren, Dwight (Roni) Gilley of Dothan, Malia (Chris) Santangelo of Charleston, South Carolina, Taylor (Ethan) Parrish of Headland, Brianna (Brandon) Wallace of Bristol, Tennessee, and William “Will” Woodcox of Dothan; and seven great-grandchildren.
A loving husband and devoted father, Wykle enjoyed traveling with his family. His wife and children recall trips taken with him throughout the years, where his sense of humor, curiosity, and knack for turning ordinary moments into memorable adventures always shone through. Eager to explore new places and try new experiences, he created memories filled with laughter and joy, passing his love of adventure and travel to each of them.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Day Springs Hospice staff—Olivia, Lynn, Amy, Sonya, and Dalton—for their exceptional care and compassion during Wykle’s final days. They also wish to acknowledge the dedicated staff at Extendicare Health and Rehabilitation Center, whose care and kindness made Wykle feel like part of their family during his recovery from surgery. A special thank you to Debbie at Southern Comfort In-Home Care for her kindness and attention to Wykle’s needs, which brought comfort and peace to him and the family.
In lieu of flowers, because of Wykle’s love of animals, the family requests that donations be made to the Wiregrass Humane Society or Wiregrass Pets Rescue and Adoption.
There will be a private family service honoring Wykle.
