Otis Lee Williams, Sr.

Today, we have lost a hero. Otis Lee Williams Sr. was a man of strength, integrity, and unwavering dedication, a true cornerstone of his family and community. His legacy is one of service, love, and commitment to those he held dear.  A visitation with the family will be 5:30 - 7:30 pm, Friday, February 14, 2025 at Grace Gardens Funeral Home in Woodway.  Funeral Service will be 1 pm, Saturday, February 15, 2025 at Grace Gardens Funeral Home, with Rev. Steve Ramsdell officiating.  Interment with Navy Honors will follow at Waco Memorial Park Cemetery. 

Born on September 19, 1941, in Marlin, Texas, Otis lived a life of dedication and purpose. He served his country as an aerial photographer in the United States Navy for four years, capturing remarkable moments from above. After his military service, he committed 39 years to protecting and serving the city of Waco as a firefighter, a profession that reflected his courageous and selfless spirit. Alongside his firefighting career, Otis demonstrated his strong work ethic by successfully owning and operating Suburban Pools of Waco for over 35 years.

While his professional achievements were remarkable, Otis found his greatest joy in family. He was happiest when surrounded by his loved ones, sharing stories, laughter, and love. Whether traveling alongside his beloved wife, Judith Williams, gathering with his big family, Otis cherished every moment spent with those closest to him. To his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, he wasn’t just Otis, he was "Peepaw," a name spoken with love, admiration, and the deepest respect. He was their rock, their storyteller, and their biggest supporter.

Preceded in Death By: mother, Ruth Lanier; father, Orville Williams; sister, Marcia Lamendola; and grandmother, Georgia Alexander. 

Survived By: His wife of 50 years, Judith Williams; his children, Skip Williams of Gholson, Chad Gilstrap of China Spring, Tyra Kosar & Jon Steed of Bosqueville, Celeste Brown and husband Jessie Brown of China Spring. His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Chase Gilstrap, Tylar Gilstrap, Brady Gilstrap, Paige Gilstrap, Blain LeNoir, Hunter Kosar and wife Andrea Kosar, Kade Kosar and wife MaKayla Kosar, Chelsea Kosar, and Andon Brown. His love also extends to his great-grandchildren: Brynn Gilstrap, Leonardo Kosar, and Hank Kosar. Additionally, he is survived by his nieces, Lisa Parker and Tammy Lamendola.

Pallbearers: Chase Gilstrap, Tylar Gilstrap, Brady Gilstrap, Andon Brown, Kade Kosar, Hunter Kosar, Blain Lenoir, and David Walker. 

A celebration of Otis’s life will be held to honor the incredible man he was, a man whose courage, love, and wisdom will continue to guide his family and friends for generations to come. Though our hearts are heavy with his passing, we find comfort in knowing that his legacy will never fade.

Rest easy, Otis. Your watch is over, but your impact will last forever.