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Joseph Wayne
Williams
Jun 14, 1949 — Oct 17, 2026
Joseph Wayne "Joe" Williams was born on June 14, 1949, in Pensacola, Florida, and passed away on October 17, 2026, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
Joe will be remembered as a devoted family man, a proud American, a hardworking craftsman, and a loyal friend. Guided by his personal motto, "God, Family, and Country," Joe lived his life with dedication, integrity, and a deep appreciation for the people and things he loved.
Joe was a very patriotic man who took great pride in his country. He proudly served four years in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War, attaining the rank of Boiler Technician Third Class (BT3). He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal and carried his love for his country and pride in his military service throughout his life.
After earning his GED, Joe attended trade school to study heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC). He also worked as an electrical journeyman, developing valuable skills that reflected his practical abilities and dedication to his craft. Joe later spent more than 20 years working at Whirlpool, where he made many good friends before retiring.
A talented craftsman, Joe especially enjoyed woodworking and cabinet building. He took pride in creating beautiful, functional pieces and even developed a website to advertise and sell his cabinets and showcase his talents. His craftsmanship reflected his creativity, patience, and commitment to doing his best.
Joe had a fun-loving personality. Although generally quiet, he had a wonderful sense of humor and appreciated a good practical joke. Those who knew him will remember his humor, the laughter he brought to everyday moments, and the unique personality that made him special.
One of Joe's greatest joys was riding motorcycles with his wife, Karen, and their friends. Over the years, he owned several different motorcycles and traveled many miles, enjoying countless adventures along the way. Traveling with Karen brought him tremendous happiness, and the memories they made together on the open road were among the treasured experiences of his life.
Joe was a longtime member of Eastwood Christian Church, where his faith was an important part of his life.
Joe lived most of his life in the Tulsa area. During the final six months of his life, he moved to Oklahoma City to be closer to family. His family was grateful for the opportunity to have him nearby and to share that precious time together.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Leona Williams; his brother, Gene Williams; his sister, Barbara Josie; and his beloved wife, Karen Williams.
Joe leaves behind a legacy of hard work, patriotism, craftsmanship, humor, and love. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends, as well as his beloved dog, Leha.
Though he is no longer with us, the memories of his life, his motorcycle adventures, his practical jokes, and the love he shared with those around him will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Joe will be remembered with love and missed more than words can express.
A viewing will be held on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Moore's Southlawn Chapel. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Moore's Southlawn Chapel, with interment to follow at Memorial Park Cemetery.
Thursday
Moore's Southlawn Chapel
Starts at 2:00 pm (Central time)
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