Ronald Joe Williams passed away on September 13, 2026. Born on May 26, 1939, and raised in Akron, Ohio, Ronald was a lifelong member of Mt. Olive Baptist Church. He attended Akron Public Schools and graduated from South High School.

Ronald was known for his deep love of music, his passion for motoring, and his remarkable ability to fix almost anything without ever looking at the instructions. While he loved to travel—often driving to the West Coast—he was most importantly remembered for his gentle ways, calm spirit, infectious "Ha-Ha" laughter, and warm smile.

Ronald began working straight out of high school at Firestone Tire and Rubber Co., while also working weekends for A Merry Oldsmobile in Barberton, Ohio for many years. Upon retiring from Firestone, he provided contractual maintenance at the Akron Beacon Journal Newspaper facility located in Downtown Akron for several more years before his permanent retirement.

Ronald was a dedicated and proud parent helper for the former Marchorettes Marching Band, Al-Kaf Shriners Youth Group and the Al-Kaf Daughters of Isis Isiserettes Drill and Drum Corps, frequently transporting participants, traveling to competitions, and photographing events. He also provided a supportive, active role as a member family of the Jack and Jill of America, Inc., Akron Chapter.

Ronald was preceded in death by his parents, Willie Joe and Addie Mae Williams; his grandparents, Edward and Evelyn Hitchcock, and Joseph and Nina Williams; his in-laws, James Sullinger and Thelma Gladman; his cherished wife, Joan F. Sullinger-Williams; his adored son, Ronald J. "Cowboy" Williams; and his beloved sister, Yvonne L. Williams, and brother-in-law, Jerome Sullinger; as well as many other loved ones.

He leaves to cherish his memory his daughter, Melanie M. Williams (Atlanta, GA); his aunt, Barbara Watkins (Akron, OH); his sisters-in-law, Margaret Foster (Columbus, OH) and Beverly Bell (Akron, OH); as well as a host of nieces, great-nieces, nephews, great-nephews, cousins, and other family members, and relatives. Special mention is made of his extended family and friends who will be forever held in our hearts at the Copley News Lottery of Akron, Staircase Florist of Akron, and his former co-workers at the Akron Beacon Journal.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate his life on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at Wellington Funeral Service, 811 Grant St., Akron, OH 44311. A viewing will be held at 11:00 AM, prior to the service beginning at 12:00 PM. A graveside burial will take place on Monday, September 28, 2026, at Glendale Cemetery in Akron, Ohio.

The Williams family extends their special thanks and heartfelt appreciation to Wellington Funeral Service for their altruistic, down-to-earth approach in assisting them during this very complex time. We are forever grateful.