Alton Clarence Williams

Alton Clarence Williams, lovingly known as “A.C.,” passed away peacefully at his home on July 7, 2026, at the age of 84. Born on November 1, 1941, in Greene County, Mississippi, A.C. lived a life marked by deep commitment, hard work, and enduring love for his family and friends.

Raised in the Baptist faith, A.C. strove throughout his life to embody the values and teachings that he grew up with, always seeking to lead by example through his caring and honest nature. From an early age, he learned the meaning of dedication and responsibility while working alongside his father in the timber business. This foundation of hard work became a hallmark of his character and was evident in every chapter of his life.

In 1963, A.C. answered the call to serve his country when he was drafted into the United States Army. He served proudly for two years, attaining the rank of Sergeant in the distinguished 2D Armored Division based at Fort Hood, Texas. His honorable discharge was a testament to his service and integrity, traits that continued to guide him throughout his lifetime.

Following his military service, A.C. began a long and fulfilling career with Scott Paper Company in Mobile, Alabama. Starting from entry-level positions, he embodied dedication and reliability, steadily progressing to become the Control Room Operator of the Pine Digester Department in the Pulp Mill. A.C.'s colleagues and supervisors recognized his unwavering dependability, and he retired after an impressive 33 years of service.

Beyond his professional achievements, A.C. found the greatest fulfillment in the bonds he cultivated with his family and friends. A pivotal moment in his life occurred on Memorial Day, 1977, when he was introduced to Gloria Jean Booth Miller and her young daughter, Alicia Marie Miller. Their immediate connection led to a union filled with love and mutual admiration. On August 15, 1977, A.C. and Gloria dedicated their lives to one another in a heartfelt ceremony at the Washington County Courthouse in Chatom, Alabama. Their marriage brought A.C. great joy, not only as a devoted husband but also as a cherished father and later as a grandfather.

A.C. is lovingly remembered by his wife of 48 years, Gloria B. Williams; his daughter, Alicia Marie Miller Jones; his grandchildren, Valerie Marie Brown and Trent Logan Brown (Jordan); his great granddaughter, Makalyn Marie Anderson; his brother, Bobby Gene Williams (Liz); his sister-in-law, Jean Williams; and other beloved family members and friends. The memories and lessons he leaves behind will be treasured by them all.

He was preceded in death by his father, Clarence Carlie Williams; mother, Bethel Jamae Williams; son, Loren Alton Williams; brothers, Troy Luke Williams and Benjamin Douglas Williams; sisters, Artis Mae Lankford, Clara Asalene Baggett, and Shirley Annette Brewer; sister-in-law, Dorothy Williams; brothers-in-law, Leland Lankford, Luke Baggett, and Dudley Wayne Brewer; and his parents-in-law, Valrie Clinton Booth and Edith Marie Dobbin Booth.

A.C. embraced every opportunity for adventure and made lasting memories with those closest to him. Family vacations and traveling held a special place in his heart, with autumn trips to the Smokey Mountains being among his favorites. He cherished the outdoors, whether competing with friends to bag the biggest buck, catch the largest bass, or striving for a hole in one out on the golf course. Boating on the rivers and creeks of the Alabama Delta, reading, lively card games, and watching the Atlanta Braves or SEC football were among his many passions.

Throughout his years, A.C. valued camaraderie and togetherness, attending monthly retiree suppers with colleagues and their spouses. Many of these friendships blossomed into travel companions for cross-country road trips and remarkable cruises, including a memorable paddleboat journey down the Mississippi River and an extended voyage to Belize, Honduras, and Mexico. These experiences, filled with laughter and shared discovery, held a special place in his heart.

Those who knew A.C. remember a man of genuine warmth, steadfast loyalty, and generous spirit. His life exemplified the words of Saint Francis: "Remember that when you leave this earth, you can take nothing that you have received... but only what you have given: a full heart enriched by honest service, love, sacrifice, and courage." Not only did A.C. live by this creed, but he leaves behind a legacy borne out of it.

Wake will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Freeman Funeral Home. A visitation will be held on Friday, July 10, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until the 11:00 a.m. funeral service at Freeman Funeral Home. Burial will take place at Pine Crest Cemetery in Citronelle, Alabama. 

Pallbearers will be Randy Williams, Jerome Williams, David Wayne Baggett, Jimmy Baggett, Benny Williams, Shane Brewer, Heath Brewer, Tyler Williams, and Corey Roberts.

With grateful hearts, A.C.’s family and friends celebrate his life filled with service, adventure, unwavering love, and selfless generosity. His memory and spirit will be cherished by all whose lives he touched.