Irving Washington Williams

On Wednesday, January 1, 2020, the Angel of Silence descended upon Sentara Norfolk General Hospital with tenderness and compassion closing the eyes that had seen a brighter vision, folded the hands that had labored for God and man, stopped the feet that had made many steps and sealed the lips that had glorified and called upon the name of Jesus. Irving Washington Williams, affectionately known as Wash, was born on October 14, 1932 to the late Oliver and Alnata Williams. His elementary and secondary school years were spent at the Brunswick County Training School in Bolivia, NC where he also received his high school diploma in May of 1950. Immediately after graduating from high school, Wash joined the United States Coast Guard and began his career as a cook on the USCGC Mendota. He continued to excel by learning to translate morse code and ultimately became a Radioman. After several years of service, Wash was promoted to the rank of Chief. At that time, he was one of the first African-Americans to receive such ranking. Wash retired from the military in 1970 after proudly serving his country for 20 years. While in the military, Wash met and married the love of his life, Emma Louise Teachey. During this wonderful union, three children were born: Carolyn, Duane and Tesua. After retiring from the military, Wash started a new career at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard as an electrician in Shop 51. He worked at the shipyard for 15 years and ultimately retired again. After retiring for the second time, he relaxed by traveling, fishing, bowling, gardening, playing cards and spending time with his family. Wash accepted Christ into his life at a very young age and after relocating to Portsmouth, VA, he became a member of First Baptist Church Taylorsville where the late T.M. Steele was Pastor. Wash was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Emma, two brothers: James H. Graham and Carlyle Williams; and one sister, Lurevia Ruthland Williams. He is survived and will be missed by his three loving children: Carolyn D. Williams, Duane D. Williams, Sr. (Jacqueline) and Tesua Williams (Carlton Ratcliffe, Sr.); six grandchildren: Kenyata Williams, Myesha Williams, Makeda Williams, Carlton Ratcliffe, Jr., Ashae Williams and Duane D. Williams, Jr.; six great-grandchildren: Dontrell Banks, Domonique Banks, Aubren Williams, Geovonni Williams, Trinity Bright and Emma Williams; two brothers: Arthur Williams of Bolivia, North Carolina, Wilbur A. Williams (Johnette) of Bolivia, North Carolina; one sister, Odell Williams of Bolivia, North Carolina; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and special neighbors, Tony, Tee and Clint.

Irving Washington Williams

October 14, 1932 - January 1, 2020