Sherman Williams Jr.
January 29, 1946 - November 12, 2022
Obituary
Sherman Williams Jr., was born January 29, 1946, to Sherman Williams Sr. (father) and Alberta Thomas (mother), in Little Rock, AR. Sherman was the middle child of four children and graduated from Mann High School in 1964. Sherman Williams Jr., 76, of Seattle, Washington, passed away on November 12, 2022, after a year-long battle with cancer.
Sherman served in the Air Force as an Administrative Specialist and received the Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon. Serving in the military gave him the opportunity to travel the world and see countries such as Germany and London.
After Sherman served his country, he wanted to continue to travel. He heard about several cities, but wanted to check out Seattle, WA. While visiting Seattle, he fell in love with the city and stayed. He moved in with his Aunt Eddie Mae and began his journey.
On his journey, Sherman met Lennis Boyd, and they married in 1968. Through this union they welcomed their beautiful daughter, Shabané Kushinda Williams on August 30, 1976. Unfortunately, their marriage did not last, but they maintained a special bond throughout the years. Sherman held many titles in his life, but his favorite role was being a father. He was always there for Shabané whether it was giving her advice on life, encouraging her to accomplish goals, teaching her how to forgive others, or just helping others in their time of need. Shabané knew she could always count on her dad to be in her corner.
During Sherman’s early career, he worked a variety of jobs including caretaker, salesman, key punch operator, and construction worker. He enjoyed construction for years, but unbeknownst to him, the City of Seattle/City Light had bigger plans. Sherman’s thirty plus years at City Light included various positions and he was equally proud of each. He started out as an Apprentice then became a Journeyman Lineman and moved up to Safety Officer. Sherman took a leave of absence from his Safety Officer position to work for Local IBEW 77, as a Business Representative. He was an advocate for the Union and strongly believed in fighting for union member’s rights. Sherman returned to City Light to finish his career as a Crew Chief then a Coordinator.
While at City Light, he was able to create long lasting friendships and have a positive impact on many colleagues. Some of the memories they have shared of Sherman include how outspoken he was on issues that were important to him and the trade, his delightful sense of humor and the sound of his heartful laugh. He was also known to share his love of jazz music by making CD’s and enjoyed traveling with his colleagues to enjoy the Indy Racing in Vancouver, BC and MLK Weekend in Lake Tahoe, NV. Throughout Sherman’s work history and compassion for helping others, he received numerous awards and recognitions.
Once Sherman retired from City Light, he was able to enjoy his hobbies. He loved sports, especially football, his favorite teams were the Seahawks and Arkansas Razorbacks. He spent his free time attending various Cirque du Soleil shows with his daughter in VIP style. He also loved spending time and traveling around the United States and Canada with his life partner Brenda. He enjoyed visiting family in Little Rock, AR, Dallas, TX, and Seattle. Some of his favorite pastimes included playing golf, dominoes and poker with the fellas, barbequing and relaxing in his recliner.
Sherman’s sister Shirley has many fond memories of her brother. One that sticks out is when he was a paperboy, and she would buy the last paper he could not sell for $.25. She would then read the paper upside down which always made the family laugh. Shirley also remembers how she felt when they would go everywhere together, even though they were just walking back and forth to school.
Sherman was a member of First A.M.E. Church, 9:30 a.m. services and looked forward to Wednesday night Bible Study. He was also a proud member of the Cascade Elks Lodge in Seattle, WA.
Sherman was preceded in death by his parents and older brother, Levertis Mack. Sherman leaves to cherish his memory, a loving daughter, Shabané Kushinda Williams; sisters, Fannie Mae Williams Mason, Shirley Ford; nephews, Chris Bruce, Prince Williams; Derek Williams; life partner, Brenda Tate; and numerous family members and close friends. He will be missed by his family and all of those who knew and loved him.
RIP, visit all thoughts places you wanted to see. I will miss you and your laugh!
Condolences to Sherman Williams’ s family. He will truly be missed I worked with Seattle City Lights for many years.
To the family my condolences for your loss 🥲. I’m blessed to have known Sherman in my life time. He touched many life’s. I new Sherman for many years at Seattle city light. He was funny ,kind ,and helpful. Sherman was family!! Sherman will be missed. But all the memories with him I’ll cherish. RIP brother ❤️
Prayers to the family of Sherman Williams. I had the pleasure of working with at City Light. He always had a smile and funny joke when in his presence. He will truly be missed. I’m so thankful I had the opportunity to know him.
Uncle Sherman, I am grateful that you are the Berry Siblings Uncle. And thank you for time that you shared with us here on this Earth! Peace, Nephew David Berry Smith.
Our hearts are heavy to hear of Uncle Sherman’s passing. His visit a couple years ago to Little Rock, Arkansas was very special. We regret that we’re not able to be there on Thursday. Love, Angela Mason Doyne, niece
He has left a mark in my life. Best of my cherished memories from work. I will miss him and his humor and laughter.
Nadine Berry May god blanket and protect Shabane thru this period.
Rest in Love you Sherman♥️🙏🏽
We were so fortunate to have Sherman as a wonderful neighbor. His laughter was contagious and we miss him dearly. Looking forward to getting to know Shaubane’ as time marches on. ♥️
Much love and sympathy for the Williams family.
Christopher Smith
May he rest in peace
Condolences to you and your family, Shabane. May the Lord wrap his arms around you at this time.