Archie Williamson

Archie D. Williamson, 72, passed away April 9, 2007, at Lake Park Rehabilitation Center, surrounded by his family and friends. The sun rose on March 15, 1935, for the late Andrew and Ora Williamson with the birth of their youngest son, Archie D. Williamson. He was baptized at Mt. Cilla Baptist Church in Hawkinsville, Georgia. He moved to Toledo at a young age and joined Calvary Baptist Church under the late Rev. J.A. Dotson. Archie graduated from Scott High School in 1956, playing both varsity basketball and football. After graduating, he was employed at Dana Corporation, retiring in 1994 after 34 years. He also worked part time at the Toledo Terminal. He was joined in holy matrimony on December 5, 1959, to his high school sweetheart, Linda L. Abernathy at Warren AME Church, which he later joined. To this union, 5 children were born. Amongst his hobbies, he was an avid bowler and lover of all sports. He also was a people person. He was one of the many men who founded The Friends & Fathers organization for the mentally retarded, for which his son Todd, was his inspiration. He was preceded in death by both parents, 6 brothers, and 1 grandchild. He is survived by wife of 47 years, Linda; 3 sons, Archie D. Jr. (Celina) of Columbus, OH, Felton and Todd, both of Toledo; 2 daughters, Anita M (Carl) Bow of West Bloomfield, MI and Andrea of Toledo; 10 grandchildren; 1 brother, Hollis (Patricia) Williamson; 2 sisters, Bernice M Hollie, Holland, OH and Mildred (Willie James) McKinnis of Toledo, Verlene Williamson, of Ohio; mother-in-law, Reba Abernathy of Sylvania, OH; also in-laws, Edward (Barbra) Abernathy, Howard (Cynthia) Abernathy, Anita Davis, and Neal (Terri) Abernathy, and a host of family and friends. Visitation will be Friday 4-6 p.m. followed by wake services 6 -8 p.m. Dale-Riggs Funeral Home. Funeral services will be Saturday 12:00 noon Warren A.M.E. Church, Rev. Otis J. Gordon, Officiant. Interment will be Monday 10:00 a.m. with family and friends meeting at the gate of Forest Cemetery. Special thanks to Dr. Wohwend and the fourth floor Lake Park staff. www.dalefh.com