Otis Williamson Jr.

Otis “Bill “Williamson, Jr. transitioned peacefully Wednesday, January 3, 2024, at Coliseum Nursing Home in Hampton, Virginia.

Bill was born on May 1, 1931, to the late Otis Williamson, Sr and Nellie Williamson-Long in Library, Pennsylvania. He began his career in the United States Air Force and retired after more than twenty plus years. While stationed at Langley Air Force Base, Bill played the saxophone with local bands at the NCO Club. His love of music and entertainment became a shared interest with his future wife, Ella Little Williamson. They married in 1970 and had a son, the late Eric A. Williamson, who was “the apple of their eye, “and an especial “love of their life.”

Having varied career interests, Bill worked as a manager in food services at Hampton University and the Hampton Coliseum. As a musician and entertainer, he became a member of the Newport News and Hampton Jazz Group. He was well-known for his “Jazz Sips” with local and nationally known artists. He was happiest, when he could introduce renown jazz musicians like Miles Davis and Thelonious Monk, as his friends and fellow artists. At local celebrations, he would have bands and singers performing all types of music to entertain the crowds at Bay Days, jazz festivals, and private parties.

In later years, he became an avid golf player. He loved people and he loved to socialize. When he became ill, and became a resident at the nursing home, he would still play his music and entertain his fellow residents.

Left to cherish his memories are his wife, Ella, his children; Otis Williamson III (Kate) of Pennsylvania), and Toylynn Edwards (Chuck) of Ohio; his siblings, Robert Williamson (Martie) of Ohio, Jackie Williamson of California, Shelia Moses (Frank) of South Carolina, Theresa  and Charmaine Williamson of Pennsylvania; a special niece, Victoria Washington of Pennsylvania; grandchildren, Shera, Carl, and Sarah Williamson of Pennsylvania, Matthew and Benjamin Edwards of Ohio, Eric Williamson, Jr. of Virginia;  great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren; numerous relatives, family, and  friends.

Famous words to live by,

“On this day, I give thanks for all the love and blessings you have given me. My loving family, my caring friends, and the wonderful people I met in my life’s journey. Please continue to bless, protect, and guide them to overcome their challenges in life and to always remember me.”

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