Rev. Dr. Oliver R. Williams

The Beginning of a Generation

Revelation 21:1: “And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away...”

A Life That Marked the Start of Something Greater

Reverend Dr. Oliver Ronald Williams was born on July 6, 1936, to the late Rev. Leroy Williams, Sr. and Pearlie Williams. A trailblazer from the beginning, he was the first African American male born at Christ Hospital. He was reared in Lincoln Heights, Ohio, as the 2nd youngest of twelve children, all of whom preceded him in death—marking his transition as truly the “End of a Generation.”

Transition From Labor to Reward

On Wednesday, April 15, 2026, Reverend Dr. Williams peacefully transitioned from labor to reward at his residence, surrounded by the love of family and the grace of God.

A Covenant of Love and Legacy

Sixty-four years ago, he was united in holy matrimony to the love of his life, Barbara Jean Mosely Williams. Their union was a sacred covenant, blessed with children and fortified by unwavering devotion. Together, they built a legacy grounded in faith, love, and family. Reverend Dr. Williams was a devoted husband, a nurturing father, a proud grandfather and great-grandfather, and a cherished brother, uncle, cousin, and trusted friend.

Precious Remembrance

Reverend Dr. Williams was preceded in death by his beloved son, Earnest Ray, whose memory remained dear to his heart.

A Foundation of Learning and Theological Excellence

Reverend Dr. Williams was a proud graduate of Old Lockland Wayne High School. He furthered his education at Temple Community Bible College, earning a Certificate of Study and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Theology. He also pursued studies in Management, Public Speaking, and Communication. On June 3, 2005, he was conferred the Honorary Doctor of Sacred Theology Degree from Temple Bible College & Seminary.

The Call, The Commission, The Commitment

From an early age, Reverend Dr. Williams demonstrated a deep love for God and a sincere compassion for people. He acknowledged his divine call to ministry on December 25, 1977, preached his first sermon on January 15, 1978, was licensed on January 22, 1978, and ordained on September 9, 1979.

Following the passing of his beloved brother, the late Reverend Alphonso Williams, Sr., he was called to pastor Friendship Missionary Baptist Church on January 20, 1990. For over 36 years, he served faithfully with wisdom, humility, and unwavering commitment. Even after relocating to Georgia in 2017, he continued to commute faithfully by plane and car to fulfill his pastoral assignment, demonstrating a level of sacrifice that was truly unmatched. His preaching was powerful, his leadership impactful, and his life a living testimony of Christ’s love.

A Ministry That Reached Nations

Reverend Dr. Williams also served as Second Vice President of the Ministers & Deacons Institute of the Western Union Baptist District Association, a member of the Budget Committee of W.U.B.D.A., Trustee of the O.I.C. Foundation, member of the Stewardship Board of the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc., and Moderator of the Western Union Baptist District Association.

Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, he founded the Haiti Gospel Mission, establishing feeding programs, educational initiatives, and a Christmas fund for orphans. Through his leadership, an orphanage and a church facility were built, leaving a lasting legacy of compassion and ministry abroad.

A Legacy That Lives On

Reverend Dr. Oliver R. Williams leaves to cherish his precious memories: His loving and devoted wife, Barbara Jean Williams;

His beloved children: Doris, George, Gwendolyn, Starletta, Oliver Deron (Sharon), and Brian Chase (Sharon);

His cherished grandchildren: Cedric, Oliver Deron, Jr., Leah (Joram), Shameka, Stephanie, Sidra and Jacari Chastin;

His treasured great and great-great-grandchildren: De’Andre Scott, Zayn Cylear, Avauni Scott, Avery Scott, Ceasar Rico Bowens, Dakari Bowens, Camron Bowens, Elon Bowens, Swayzee Bowens, Dai’Vyaughn Bowens, Starr Scott, Asaiah Lowe, Aiden Lowe, La’Naisha Sweet, Lauryn Melendez, Randolph Wilson, Antonio Wilson, Sidraya Willis, Antwain Willis, R’Dray Willis, and Sion Willis;

Along with a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, the Friendship Missionary Baptist Church family, and countless friends whose lives were forever touched by his ministry.

The Assurance of Eternal Life

Though our hearts are heavy, we rejoice in the blessed assurance of God’s promise: “to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.” Reverend Dr. Oliver R. Williams has fought a good fight, finished his course, and kept the faith.

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