William Ellis Williams

August 29, 1938 - August 4, 2020

William “Willie” Ellis Williams, 81, of Charlotte, died peacefully at his home on Tuesday, August 4, 2020. Willie was born in Pulaski, Virginia, on August 29, 1938, the son of Teddie and Velma Williams. When his father returned home from World War II, the family relocated to Charlotte, North Carolina. Willie graduated from Central High School and was blessed with a natural talent to work with his hands. Being an avid NASCAR fan, Willie used his talents and skills to work in pit crews in NASCAR’s early days, especially for race car driver, Roy Tiner, who drove the number 9 car. He could tell some incredible stories about this time. Later, thinking he was going to be drafted by the Army, Willie took a proactive approach to military service and joined the Air Force. During his enlistment, he served both stateside as well as in Hawaii and Guam, where he flew with reconnaissance missions over Vietnam. He was honorably discharged as a Staff Sergeant on October 28, 1970, after ten years of faithful service to his country. Willie returned to his birthplace of Pulaski, Virginia, but after a short time, returned to the home of his childhood, Charlotte, North Carolina. He didn’t come alone, however, he brought with him his life partner, Audrey Worrell. In Charlotte, he continued to use his skills and ability to work with his hands in general building maintenance, a profession he stayed in until his retirement. He was also known as an excellent auto mechanic. Most of all, he will be remembered for his ability to never let life get him down, no matter the circumstances. Willie is survived by his sister, Carole Payne and a special nephew Rick Payne, both of Mint Hill, NC; stepdaughters: Brenda, Linda and Henrietta; and stepsons Bobby and Mike. He is further survived by numerous other family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; an infant son, Anthony “Tony” Ellis Williams; his life partner Audrey Worrell; and a stepdaughter Gail. He will be sorely missed as everyone who knew him loved him, including his doctors at the VA. There, he received excellent care, especially by his primary care physician, Dr. Amara Amarasinghe. Lowe-Neddo Funeral Home has been given the privilege of caring for Willie and his family. In honor of his service to his country, he will be inurned at a later date at the VA National Cemetery in Salisbury, North Carolina. Thank you for keeping the Williams family in your thoughts, prayers and acts of kindness. Please take a moment to share a favorite memory, photo or condolence on Willie’s Tribute Wall.