"Many are the plans in a person's heart; but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails" (Proverbs 19:21 NIV)

Michael Andrew Williams was born April 13, 1946, to Charles and Frances Rebecca Hooe Williams in McKeesport, PA. Michael would prove to be a resilient and introspective child who grew into a highly accomplished man.  Michael valued family, education, commitment to service, and sharing his vast knowledge from life and travel. The closing hours of his life were met with determination and courage as his devoted wife, children, and family surrounded him with love and compassionate care until the Lord called him to rest on September 22, 2024.

Growing up in the steel mill town of Clairton, PA during the 1940's and 50's taught Michael the importance of family and learning from history. An exceptionally bright young man, Michael was encouraged by his mother to know and understand things about the broader world. Not allowing himself to be limited by geography or hardhips, Michael enjoyed learning classical music, reciting Shakespeare, and mimicking Motown tunes with his teen quartet group. He was also a junior deacon at the Mt. Olive First Baptist Church, Clairton PA. While completing his formal education in the Clairton Public Schools System (PA) Michael enlisted in the Navy Reserves, transitioning to active duty upon graduation from high school. His military career spanned 18 years.  Always the learner and achiever, Michael also  attended the American University where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Administration of Justice.

Michael's career path was a journey of perseverance, discipline, and achievement despite the odds presented to any black man coming up during the Civil Rights Era. The highlights of his career included being one of a few black men to serve in the Navy Medical Corp,  District of Columbia police officer, Secret Service Agent (White House Detail), and Department of State Foreign Service Officer. As Michael attained each position, he accumulated specialized training, certifications, and awards; demonstrating he was always a leader in his career field.

Michael was serious about his relationship with God.  Serving God's people was one of his many gifts.  He served many years as a deacon at the Rock Creek Baptist Church (Washington DC), Mount Calvary Baptist Church (Lanham, MD) where he served as the Chairman of the Deacon's Ministry, and the First Baptist Church of Highland Park (Landover, MD).  Deacon Williams trained and mentored many deacons in the discipline of caring for God's people.

In retirement, Michael's greatest joy was being a member of the Blue Knights International Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club, Inc. as the first regional chaplain. He was a long-standing member of the Maryland I chapter of the Mason Dixon Conference. The many motorcycle trips for enjoyment and community service were recounted for family and friends. Michael's dedication as the regional chaplain of the Mason Dixon Conference was recognized and valued by his local, regional, and international conference members. He most definitely let everyone know that he would "Ride with Pride".

Of all Michael's accomplishments, the relationship with his wife and three children provided his greatest source of pride and a lifetime of memories. Michael married the love of his life and their union traversed 58 years of marriage. Their three children and seven grandchildren have an inheritance from their long-lasting relationship that served as a demonstration of how a foundation of love can prevail against all odds. It is from this legacy of love and life that Michael leaves to honor his memories; his beloved wife Mamie; his three children, Allan Williams (Racine), Rhonda Hawkins (Laurence), and Lori Webb (Marke); his seven grandchildren, Simone Webb, Asa Hawkins, Jordan Williams, Michaela Hawkins, Beverly Webb, Paris Williams, and Zarah Hawkins; a sister, Vivian Johnson; 3 sisters-in-love, Mary Jeanette Williams, June Ingram, and Ann Ingram.  He was also blessed with a niece who was more like a daughter (Marva), a great-nephew who was like a grandson (Eric Pettiford), a great-niece who was like a granddaughter (Janece Pettiford); dear friends Joseph and Barbara Brown;  numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the  Pancreatic Cancer Action Network.