After an accidental fall on November 12th, our beloved husband, father, and friend, Dennis Williams, was called to his heavenly home on November 25, 2019. In his 69 years, Dennis touched more lives than he could ever imagine. Dennis is survived by his devoted wife, Suzanne Deese Williams; his son and daughter-in-law, Ryan and Jamie Williams and their children, Katelyn, Claire, and Calvin; his son, Daniel Cook and grandson, Landon Cook; his daughter, Sarah Cook and his “granddogs” Boudin and Basco; his sisters Joan Dellefield (David), Donna Gaul (Glenn), Lisa Smetanick (Patrick); brother-in-law Van Deese. His multitude of nieces and nephews include Dana, Darren, Jill, Chris, Kim, Courtney, Sean, Christopher, Liane, Lauren, Angela, Buddy, Brian, Jake, Bailee, Eli, and Tanner. He will also be missed by his four legged children, Simon and Cheney. 

As a teenager, Dennis became part of the Sandweg foster family. The Sandwegs instilled a love of patriotism, lifelong learning, and stability in the formative years of Dennis’ life. He came into their lives at a very impressionable time and their influence cannot be overstated. He is survived by his foster siblings, Bill, Bob, Jean, Fran, and John. 

Dennis and Suzanne adopted a family motto that “Once you get in this family, you can’t get out”. With that being said, we would like to recognize some family members who are related by love, if not blood. Charles and Jo Deese, Sylvia “Lulu” Watkins, Danny and Jennifer Cook, Judy and Richard Hebert, Dawn Marie Gates, Elyse Michael McKenna, Emerson Michael Gates, Brandi Duplechain, Jessica and Kim Wolford, and Tyrese Kobay Grice. 

Dennis was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Eleanor, younger brother, David, and nephew Parker Deese. Since all dogs go to heaven, we know his recently lost furry friend, Barnabas, was there to greet him. 

A man of the Navy and a retired Law Enforcement Officer, Dennis served his country throughout his adult life. He loved his Creator, his country, and his family. A devout Christian, Dennis was active in Bible Studies and Men’s Groups at his church up until the time of his passing. True to form, Dennis was an organ donor, proving that his commitment to helping others would continue even after this life. 

We ask you to join us as we celebrate a life well lived and loved on Sunday, December 8, 2019 at Pleitz Chapel at First Baptist Church of Pensacola. Visitation will begin at 2pm and the service at 3pm. In lieu of flowers, we ask that any donations be made to Martha’s Vineyard Ministry through First Baptist Church.