A most heartfelt thank you and appreciation for your expression of love and support during our time of bereavement. Your comforting words, kind gestures, and presence have been a great source of strength for us.
To all who sent flowers, cards and messages of condolence, donations for the wake or who attended the service, we are profoundly grateful. Your thoughtfulness and compassion have brought us much comfort and peace. Thank you so much for being there for us, and for honoring the memory of our devoted father Hillary Williams. Your support means more to us than words can express
With heartfelt appreciation & love,
The Williams Family
Southampton SDA Church Hall
ALPHA MEMORIAL CHAPEL FUNERAL HOME 24/Islandwide Services 4413351958
“Well done, good and faithful servant… enter into the joy of your Lord.”
Matthew 25:23
It is with profound reverence and deepest admiration that we gather to pay tribute to the life and legacy of the world's greatest storyteller, Hillary Calbert Williams, in this solemn yet celebratory memorial, "Saved From The Raging Sea".
As we reflect on the extraordinary journey of this iconic storyteller, we honor not only his remarkable gift for weaving tales that transported us to realms both familiar and unknown, but also his unwavering commitment to his family, his unshakeable faith, and his selfless service to others.
As a devoted family man, Hillary's love and dedication to his loved ones was a beacon of inspiration, guiding us all towards the importance of nurturing our own familial bonds. As a loyal sibling, he embodied the values of unity and support, demonstrating that the ties that bind us together are indeed unbreakable. As a man of God, Hillary's faith was the rock upon which he stood, a testament to the transformative power of devotion and the unshakeable trust in a higher purpose.
And as a servant to his community, his generosity of spirit and his willingness to lend a helping hand have left an indelible mark on the lives of all those he touched. Through his stories, Hillary saved us from the raging sea of uncertainty, guiding us towards safe harbor, and reminding us that even in the darkest of times, hope and redemption are always within reach.
May his memory continue to inspire us, and may his legacy live on through the countless lives he has touched, as we remember the extraordinary life and times of Hillary Calbert Williams.
The sister saw her brother's plight and rang the cry, “Mother, Calbert is drowning,” and in she plunged to try and save her brother, but neither could the sister swim. So the rapids claimed another.
While on the hill, the mother shouts, “Please, someone save my daughter.” For mother thought that brother was helping sister not sister helping brother. The blessed mother’s cry was heard, a friend soon brought a rope, and with a perfect throw he held them fast. This was their only hope.
The people cheered that plucky lad the rapids were defied. And soon, through tears of gratitude, they stood at their mother’s side. And there their mother learned the truth as told to her by sister. You risked your life to save your brother, and bending low, she kissed her. Then urged her family, let's thank God for this, your loving sister.
And the lesson Calbert learned that day was always be obedient to your mother for
Summer days are gladsome days to children out of school and to their quite rewarding when obeying mother’s rule. Today is no day for fishing, son, or swimming in the bay. The waves are swelling oh so high, you could get washed away.
Stay here by mother’s loving side till falling of the tide. And then you can go swimming when the sea subsides. The voice that spoke was mother’s as she wisely planned each day.
She spoke these words to Calbert, her boy determined to have his own way. For Calbert often shirked advice; he thought it a waste of time. To have a dear, sweet mother hang clothes upon the line.
Mothers are so funny; they think they know it all. For I’ve just now turned 9 years old, a lad quite strong I’d say, and I can swim to save myself if in she thinks I’ll fall.
So with his trunks and fishing line, he jogged towards the bay. When mother missed her little boy, she guessed just what had happened and sent the older ones to care while Calbert learned a lesson.
No sooner had the others come, he with a great big smile, put down his fishing line and said “I think I’d swim a while.” So in he plunged into the sea among the others, grinning. That dive was great, a perfect one, and up he came still grinning.
" Didn't mother tell you not to swim”, said his sister with surprise. “Come out at once and stay out until the sea subsides”. These words rang loud in Calbert's ears; he responded to obey, but oh, the current held him fast. And was sweeping him away.
The Mischief Maker
In the sun-drenched embrace of Sinky Bay, Southampton, Bermuda, a young boy named Hillary Williams danced through the vibrant chaos of family life. Born as one of eleven children to John Milton Williams and Alexandria Beonine Consuelo Williams. His childhood was a tapestry woven with laughter, music, and the occasional mischief.
A Musical Porch
Every evening, as the golden sun dipped below the horizon, the Williams family gathered on their porch. The air would fill with the sweet melodies of an accordion played by their father, while their mother strummed the harp or guitar. With each note, the family harmonized, their voices rising like the waves crashing against the nearby shore. Neighbors would lean out of their windows, drawn by the music, and soon the porch would transform into a makeshift concert hall, echoing with joy and community spirit.
The Seeds of Poetry
At just five years old, Hillary discovered another passion: poetry. His first performance in church—a heartfelt recitation about gardening—captivated not only his family but also the church members. The words flowed like the gentle breeze that danced through the palm trees, planting seeds of creativity in his young heart.
Lessons in Service
Hillary’s mother was not just a source of music but also a beacon of compassion. She took him along on her missionary visits, where they helped those in need within their community. These experiences etched the importance of service into his soul, teaching him that true fulfillment comes from lifting others.
As he grew older, Hillary earned a reputation as the “disciplinarian” among his siblings. Yet, this title came with a playful twist. He would often bribe his sister Lois’s children with treats to partake in his silly antics—like butting refrigerators with their heads or daring them to sit in the graveyard after dark. These mischievous moments created bonds that would last a lifetime.
A Heart Full of Compassion
Tragedy struck when Hillary’s baby brother John jr. passed away. In a moment of profound empathy, he approached his mother with a request that showcased his tender heart: he wanted to sleep in the crib with his brother one last time before the burial. This act of love was a testament to the compassionate spirit that would define him throughout his life.
Rest Now, Thy Good and Faithful Servant
His family gathered around him, tears mingling with smiles as they celebrated the life he had lived. They recounted the stories that defined him—the lessons he taught, the love he shared, and the unwavering faith that had guided him. Each word was a tribute, a promise to carry on his legacy of service and compassion.
As they said their goodbyes, they echoed the words he had often shared: “Rest now, thy good and faithful servant.” A sense of serenity enveloped the room, a reminder that this was not an end but a new beginning.
A Great Getting Up Morning
Hillary Williams had lived a life filled with purpose, and as the waves of Sinky Bay continued to lap gently against the shore, his spirit soared. In that great getting up morning, when the trumpet would sound, he would be reunited with his beloved siblings and all those he had touched during his life.
In the hearts of his family and community, his legacy would forever be remembered—a legacy of love, service, and an unwavering faith that would inspire generations to come.
Hillary is predeceased by wife: Ursula Williams, parents: John and Alexandria Williams, siblings: sisters Norma Outerbridge (late Charles), Lois Scott (late Leslie), Kathleen Ford (late Patro), Barbara Scott (late Charles), and Machelle Jones; brothers John Jr., Wycliff (late Margurite), Charles, Fitzgerald, Warren and Morton Williams.
He leaves a legacy with daughter: Doreen, sons: Kevin, Darron and Dwayne (Jeanine), Grandchildren: Kevina, Shae, Channa, Brianna, Jeremiah, Mesha and Verity, great grandchildren: Anyanri, Ysha, and Shai.
Sisters-in-law: Catherine Williams, Dora Bean and Chirleen Williams, Special Caregivers: Romulus Mendoza, Nicole Young of Personal Touch Caregiving Agency, Mrs. Coraline Seymour and a host of other relatives and friends.
Saved From The Raging Sea: Final Chapter - A Legacy of Service
As the sun began to set over Sinky Bay, casting a warm golden hue across the horizon, Hillary Williams reflected on a life richly lived—a tapestry woven with threads of love, service, and unwavering faith. As the last sibling of the Williams Clan, he carried not just his own memories but the collective stories of eleven remarkable lives that had come before him.
A Life of Gratitude
In his sunset years, Hillary found comfort in the care of his daughter Doreen and granddaughters, Channa and Brianna. Hillary was never one to complain. His spirit remained buoyant, reflecting the joy he found in the simplest moments: a shared laugh, a family story, or a melodious hymn. Even as his body grew weary, his heart remained light, a testament to his lifelong commitment to positivity and resilience.
A Legacy Remembered
His life had been a journey of service—an unyielding dedication to helping others that had shaped not only his own existence but also the lives of those around him. From the children he taught to the elderly he cared for, Hillary's impact resonated throughout the community His legacy was one of love and kindness, a guiding light for future generations.
As he reminisced, he recalled the countless moments spent with family and friends, the laughter shared during joyous gatherings, and the tears shed during times of loss. Each memory was a chapter in the story of his life, a life dedicated to uplifting others and making the world a better place.
The Final Goodbyes
As the days turned into weeks, Hillary’s health began to decline. Yet, in those final moments, he remained surrounded by love. His daughter and granddaughters offered comfort, sharing stories that made him smile, reminding him of the laughter that had filled their home over the years. They sang the hymns he loved, their voices blending in harmony, echoing the songs of his youth.
On a quiet afternoon, as the sun dipped low and the sky transformed into a canvas of oranges and purples, Hillary closed his eyes for the last time. With a heart full of peace, he took a deep breath, knowing he had fulfilled his purpose on earth.
A Special Bond
Hillary shared a particularly close relationship with each of his siblings. He lived for years with Lois and her family, nurturing their connections through shared experiences and playful adventures. Whether they were fishing, gardening, or simply enjoying music together, these relationships became the foundation of his character.
As the waves of Sinky Bay crashed against the rocks, the laughter of the Williams family rang out, a melody of love and unity that would echo through the generations. In this vibrant household, amidst the sounds of music and the whisper of the sea, young Hillary Williams was being shaped into the compassionate man he would one day become. A man whose life would be a testament to the power of love, service, and the enduring bonds of family
As the sun rose over Sinky Bay, the vibrant laughter of youth began to fade into the backdrop of responsibility for Hillary Williams. Transitioning from mischievous boyhood to the throes of adolescence and young adulthood, Hillary faced challenges that would shape him into the man he would become.
A Test of Strength
However, life in the military wasn’t just about cooking and camaraderie. One day, a fellow soldier, driven by a ravenous appetite, demanded more food than was fair. Hillary, ever the disciplined cook, stood his ground, asserting that the soldier had already taken enough. The tension escalated into a challenge—a confrontation that would test not only Hillary's resolve but also his physical strength. In a moment of instinctive courage, he defended his position, and when the soldier pressed him further, Hillary delivered a swift punch, knocking the challenger out cold. This incident, while a brief moment of chaos, showcased the fierce spirit that lay within him—a blend of compassion and assertiveness that defined his character.
Navigating Education and Responsibility
While his peers continued their education, Hillary faced the harsh reality of contributing to his family's needs. Having attended Centringham (now Bermuda Institute) and Heron Bay School as a child, he was forced to drop out at the age of 14. The responsibilities of adulthood weighed heavily on his shoulders, prompting him to step into the world of work early He embraced the challenge, becoming a skilled mason alongside his brothers. Together, they built many houses across the island, their craftsmanship reflecting their dedication and brotherly bond.
Confronting Mortality
Throughout his life, Hillary encountered the specter of death more times than most. Each experience left a mark on his spirit, shaping his outlook on life and deepening his appreciation for every moment. Whether it was through the loss of loved ones or near-misses that could have changed everything, he learned to navigate life with a sense of urgency and gratitude.
As the years went by, Hillary's strength and resilience became apparent not just in his physical abilities but in his character. He emerged from the trials of his teenage years with a love for cooking, a commitment to his family, and an understanding of the fragility of life. These lessons would prepare him for the future, where he would continue to embody the values of compassion and service, just as he had learned from his mother.
Comfortin
In times o erals, offering co arkest hours, reminding them of the beauty of life and the promise of eternal hope. He understood the power of grief and the importance of community, and he stood by those in need, unwavering in his support.
A Call to Faith
Throughout his life, Hillary seized every opportunity to invite others to give their hearts to the Lord. He passionately shared his faith, encouraging those around him to prepare for Christ’s coming. His commitment to service was not merely an obligation; it was a reflection of his deep faith and devotion to God. He lived out the teachings of Christ, embodying love, compassion, and humility in all he did.
As he made his election sure, Hillary embraced the promise of eternal life, sharing that hope with everyone he encountered. He believed that through service, he could touch lives and make a difference in the world.
A Legacy of Love
Hillary Williams’ life was a testament to the power of compassion and service. Through his actions, he left an indelible mark on his community, inspiring countless others to follow in his footsteps. As the waves of the raging sea continued to ebb and flow, the legacy of his love and dedication would ripple through the lives he touched, ensuring that his spirit would live on in the hearts of many Rest assured, Hillary’s faith and service will lead him to a heavenly reunion, where he will continue his mission of love and compassion in the eternal presence of God.
From his earliest days, Hillary Williams embodied the spirit of service instilled in him by his mother. Growing up in Sinky Bay, he witnessed firsthand the power of compassion and the importance of helping those in need. As he matured, these lessons became the foundation of his life’s work—a mission to serve God and humanity with unwavering dedication.
The Heart of a Caregiver
Hillary’s compassionate heart led him to the hospitals, where he would visit the sick and shut-in, bringing comfort through poetry and stories. Armed with a collection of heartfelt verses, he recited them to patients, weaving tales that offered solace and hope. His voice resonated through the sterile hallways, a soothing balm for those in pain. He believed that even in the darkest moments, a little light could bring immense comfort.
On the radio, Hillary shared life lessons and real experiences, using his platform to uplift and inspire others. His storytelling became a source of encouragement, reminding listeners that they were never alone in their struggles.
Service on the Sabbath
Every Sabbath, Hillary dedicated his time to the rest home in St. George, where his hands and heart were a lifeline for the elderly residents. He helped bathe, shave, and dress them, bringing them to church with dignity and respect. Many would shy away from the incontinent or those deemed less desirable, but Hillary approached them with love, willing to clean and care for them without hesitation. He understood that preserving the dignity of the sick and shut-in was a sacred duty, one that echoed the teachings of his faith.
Turning Negatives into Positives
In life’s confrontational moments, Hillary never sought revenge or held grudges. Instead, he approached conflicts with a positive mindset, striving to transform difficult situations into opportunities for understanding and growth. His gentle spirit and unwavering optimism inspired those around him, encouraging others to follow his lead.
A Home for the Homeless
Hillary’s home was a sanctuary not only for his own family but also for those in need. He opened his doors to homeless families, welcoming them with warmth and generosity. He believed that everyone deserved a chance to rebuild their lives, and he never hesitated to share what little he had, often going without for the sake of others. His selflessness taught his children the importance of giving, instilling in them a commitment to serve others that mirrored his own.
The Unyielding Spirit
Hillary's journey from the carefree days of childhood to the responsibilities of young adulthood was marked by significant growth. With a heart full of empathy and a spirit forged in adversity, he was becoming a man of substance—a man who would go on to inspire others through his deeds and his dedication to family and community.
As the waves of Sinky Bay crashed against the shore, Hillary’s story continued to unfold, each chapter a testament to resilience and the unbreakable bonds of love and family. The raging sea may have threatened to pull him under, but it also served as a reminder of the strength and tenacity that defined his life.
In the vibrant community of St. David's, Hillary Williams found his true calling as a family man when he met the love of his life, Ursula. Their union in 1964 at the old St. George's Seventh-day Adventist Church marked the beginning of a beautiful journey together—one filled with joy, trials, and immeasurable love. Traveling from Southampton to St. David's to claim his bride, Hillary carried with him the values of service and dedication that had been instilled in him during his youth.
The Gift of Children
Hillary and Ursula welcomed six children into their lives, each one a precious gift. The joy of parenthood was tinged with heartache, as they mourned the loss of a set of twins who were stillborn. This tragedy deepened their bond and strengthened their resolve to cherish the family they had. They raised three boys—Kevin, Darron, Dwayne, and —along with a beloved daughter Doreen, nurturing each child with love and guidance.
Playfulness in Parenting
Hillary's gentle spirit was complemented by a playful side that brought laughter and joy into their home. His children fondly remember how he would pinch them with his toes during family gatherings, or lift them up by their heads with a belt, turning routine moments into unforgettable memories. The yard became a playground for creativity; when Darron and Dwayne were born, he crafted an enormous playpen from chicken wire, measuring about 10 by 10 feet, allowing them the freedom to explore while keeping them safe.
Adventures in Nature
Family outings often included digging for cockworms in Sinky Bay, a tradition that connected them to the land and each other. Hillary taught his children the art of foraging, showing them how to gather ingredients from nature and transform them into delectable dishes. These experiences were not just about food; they instilled a respect for nature and an appreciation for hard work.
Discipline with Love
Hillary’s parenting style was a blend of gentleness and firmness. He believed in the importance of discipline, often saying that he never spared the rod. When he spoke, his voice carried weight; he would give a warning only once. If his children didn’t heed his words, there would be consequences, often enforced with a belt. While Ursula would sometimes intervene, hoping to shield her children from his discipline, Hillary remained steadfast in his belief that guidance was essential for their growth.
His children learned valuable lessons through his methods understanding the boundaries of right and wrong while feeling the unconditional love that underpinned his actions. He modeled service to others, showing them the importance of dedication not just to family, but to community as well.
A Legacy of Love
As the years rolled on, Hillary became known as a dedicated and hardworking family man, always putting his loved ones first. He worked tirelessly to provide for them, embodying the values of perseverance and integrity. His gentle nature and unwavering dedication left an indelible mark on the lives of his children, who would carry forward his lessons of love, service, and the importance of family.
In the heart of St. David's, amidst the laughter and occasional mischief, the Williams household thrived, a testament to the love and commitment shared between Hillary and Ursula. They navigated the tides of life together, anchored by their shared values and the unbreakable bonds of family
As the waves of the raging sea continued to crash against the shores of Bermuda, Hillary’s legacy as a devoted husband and father became a beacon of hope and strength for his family—a guiding light that would inspire them for generations to come.
