Obituary
SEATTLE, WA – Homer Dean Williams passed away unexpectedly at home in Seattle Jan 26, 2018 after a life well-lived.
Born April 9, 1952 in Asheville, NC, Homer proudly served over 20 years in the U.S. Naval Submarine Service, and then continued to serve, in the private and public sectors, retiring last year after 7 years with the IRS. Homer loved to “talk story.” It was always easy to tell when he was happy, which was most of the time, because he would be singing. Homer had a wide range of interests and will be missed by friends and colleagues, submariners, fellow writers, artists, and gamers. He was an avid environmentalist, could talk politics for hours, and supported several organizations fighting for civil rights, environmental justice and the support of veterans.
Homer and his wife, Roxanne Dempsey, would have celebrated 44 years of marriage this year. He is also survived by his parents, Fate and Doris Williams; sister, Shirley Diann Williams; niece, Kaycee Bailey and nephew, Matt Bailey.
A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, February 17, 2018 at Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist Church, 754 Aiken Road, Asheville, NC 28804. A luncheon will follow.
The family will greet friends from 10:00 to 11:00 prior to the service.
A Celebration of Homer’s Life will be held in Seattle on Saturday, March 10, 2018 at Butterworth Funeral Home, 520 West Raye Street, Seattle, WA 98119, at 12:00 pm, with a luncheon to follow. Please bring a story to share.
Instead of flowers, friends are encouraged to donate to the American Civil Liberties Union, the Natural Resources Defense Council or your favorite cause.
West Funeral Home, 17 Merrimon Ave., Weaverville is assisting locally.
For those who desire, condolences may be offered to the family under Homer’s obituary at www.WestFamilyFuneralServices.com.
Memorial Service
Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist Church
Saturday February 17th, 2018
11:00am
754 Aiken Road
Asheville, NC 28804
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Roxann & family,
Was so sorry to hear about Homer. Remember you both with fond memories of our times shared at Warren Wilson College back in the 70s! Please know you are n my thoughts and prayers. Sincerely, Suzy (Kovalesky) Zichy
Submitted by Susan Kovalesky Zichy on Feb 17 2018 06:40:46 AM
To Roxanne Dempsey, Homer's parents, his family and friends, I extend my sincere heartfelt condolences. Homer was one of my college roommates at Warren Wilson College who befriended me and invited me to be in his wedding to Roxanne which was truly one of the best and kindest acts. Homer was always fun to be with, he was smart, entertaining and likable . There was never a dull moment when we were together, I will always cherish his friendship, wit, and the unique way of how he brought folks together. On behalf of President Morton, the alumni association of Warren Wilson College and all who knew him at the college we extend our good thoughts and prayers and sincere sympathy. To my fellow alumnus and friend may he rest in peace! Homer, we all will miss you until we meet again.
Submitted by Rodney Lytle on Feb 16 2018 09:12:52 PM
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