Jason E. Williams was welcomed into this world by his parents Desmond and Vernita Williams as well as older brother Henry on January 6, 1978, in Akron, Ohio. Words such as sweet, kind and full of energy described his spirit as a child. Jason was a boy in whom one could always find a smile. As Jason became older, he grew from a son into a best friend. At an early age, he accepted Christ as his personal Savior and allowed that relationship to define him as a son, brother, husband, father, friend, and coach.

Jason graduated secondary school from Hoban High School and went on to pursue a Bachelor of Science at Kent State University. He was a proud member of the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Gamma Tau Chapter where he held the honor of being the 100th Undertaker, Jason valued his relationship with them. He was also a Phoenix Lodge #112 and Arlington Church of God.

While in college, Jason met the true love of his life, LaKisha Phillips. From the moment Jason noticed LaKisha on the Campus Loop, they were in love and inseparable. Their courtship included weekly flowers, unique dates, and deep conversations. Jason and LaKisha exchanged vows on July 13, 2002, and exemplified two becoming one flesh.  Whether it be in business endeavors, coaching track, mentoring and training others or on vacations, they built a life around being adventurous together. Jason’s love for LaKisha was evident as her confidant as well as a constant source of support and encouragement. LaKisha genuinely experienced true love in Jason.

In the same manner that Jason found joy in being a husband to Lakisha, he also found absolute passion and pride in being a father to Kennedy and Kingston. Jason considered the birth of their children as the highlights of his life. Affectionately calling them Sweets and Bud, Jason loved watching them grow and their personalities emerge. He could always be found at their school functions and extracurricular activities as he supported, coached and cheered them on. The adoration was mutual as Kennedy and Kingston considered Jason to be the best dad who loved and provided a perfect life for them. Jason ended every day giving thanks and in prayer with his family. He was a man who truly embraced every aspect of his calling as a husband and father.

On November 17, 2018, Jason finished his earthly race. Jason knew well the Source of his strength. Philippians 4:13 was a favorite Scripture verse of his as well as “Oh, How I Love Jesus” was his favorite song. Those who knew him are confident Jason is seeing Jesus face to face but his presence as a best friend, confidant and encourager will be deeply missed.

Until Heaven, Jason leaves behind his bride of sixteen years, LaKisha; two children, Kennedy and Kingston; mother, Vernita Williams-Brewer (Ernie); father, Desmond Williams; brother, Henry Washington (Nicole); mother-in-law, Catherine Phillips; brother-in-law, Alphonzo Phillips (Tameeka); and a host nieces, nephews, uncles, aunts, cousins and friends who look forward to seeing him again.

(In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made his children Kennedy and Kingston’s Scholarship Fund.)