Andre Williams I

André S. Williams I departed this life on Friday, December 16, at the age of 67. He was born February 15, 1955 to Gloria R. Williams of New Orleans. Louisiana. He was the father of André S. Williams II (Taurus) of Arlington, Texas and Standréa M. Payton (Ismere) of Lilburn, GA and the brother of Darrius P. Jones of New Orleans, Louisiana. In addition to his mother, brother and children, André is survived by his 6 grandchildren: Madison, Isabel, Zamir, Gloria, Za’Niyah, and Greyson. He is also survived by his nephews: Darrius Paul and Derek (Chelsea). André’s fondest memories growing up were with his family. His mother and his brother, Darrius, were dear to him. His mom, Glo, covered him in love and instilled in him his work ethic. He was his brother’s protector, but they were mostly“partners in crime” during their teenage years. He also cherished weekend and summer visits to the “country” to be loved on by his extended family in St. Rose. He often spoke of the love from his favorite Aunt Whery whose love was unconditional. In 1979 André enlisted in the United States Army. He dutifully served his country for seven years, whilst building his family and traveling the world. While in the Army, André’s designation was a Supply Specialist, which afforded him the opportunity to keep his children well stocked with grease pencils, pocket notebooks, and pens on a chain. His service took him to California, Korea, (West) Germany, and Georgia finally finding his place in Alaska where he lived for 25 years (mostly due his favorite kind of weather!). André relished being a father. He went out of his way to create memories for his children. They would take long drives to local fairs often spending bill money to bring joy to his children. A few times he snuck away to grab a pack of cigarettes and come back with a new, random pet. He always looked for opportunities to spend quality time with his son, Little André. Big André cut Little Andre’s hair, with an actual bowl, until he was 15. Little André affectionately remembers his 16th birthday, where he expected a bright shiny sports car. Instead, to his dismay, he was proudly presented with a 70’s era Ford Pinto. Dad tried. Beyond his children, another outlet was Cheap Movie Monday. He would often regale his kids with tales of how he was able to sneak into two additional movies in one night. André was a dedicated worker. He worked at the University of Alaska, Fairbanks for years not just to provide for his family, but to afford them access to the vast resources UAF had to offer. Later in life, André would return to his home, here in New Orleans to be closer with family and friends. He will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and coworkers. Relatives, family and friends are invited to attend a funeral mass at St. Katherine Drexel Catholic Church, 2015 Louisiana Avenue New Orleans, LA 70115 ON Friday, December 30, 2022 at 10:00am. Visitation will begin at 9:00 am. Internment: Mount Olivet Cemetery. Arrangements by D. W. Rhodes Funeral Home, 3933 Washington Avenue New Orleans, LA 70125. Please visit www.rhodesfuneral.com to sign the online guestbook.

Andre Williams I

December 16, 2022