Willie Dan Williams, affectionately known as “Tarzan,” to his loved ones, was born on April 5, 1936, in Athens, Louisiana, to Theodore Williams, Sr., and Aleanious (Wilson) Williams. He was the eighth of ten children, the youngest of four sons, born into a large, deeply connected family. On Sunday, December 21, 2025, Willie transitioned peacefully at the Jack C. Montgomery VA Medical Center in Muskogee, Oklahoma, surrounded by family. 

Willie married Rosena (Hayes) Williams in 1959 in Oak Grove, Louisiana. From their union came four children: Lenora Williams; Nellie Shannon (Jerry Shannon); Willie D. Williams, Jr.; and Lora Ann Williams. Together, Willie and Rosena built their life and home in Haskell, Oklahoma, where family remained at the center of his world.

Willie served honorably in the Armed Services, an experience he carried with quiet pride throughout his life. After serving, Willie attended school at Spartan Aeronautics in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Willie went on to build a long and respected career in the mechanical and industrial field. He took great pride in his work. 

Those who knew Willie knew him as a quiet man with a gentle spirit, though his sense of humor surfaced often and unexpectedly. He found joy in the simple things of life. Fishing, hunting, and caring for his family brought him deep contentment. He was especially devoted to keeping up with relatives across Haskell, Red Bird, Muskogee, Tulsa, and Louisiana, always checking in and making sure everyone was accounted for. Family was not just important to Willie; it was central to who he was.

His grandchildren were a constant source of joy for him. Known lovingly as Paw Paw and G-Paw to the little ones, Willie cherished every moment he spent with them. He leaves behind a loving legacy through his five grandchildren and fifteen great grandchildren. 

Willie was preceded in death by his parents, Theodore Williams, Sr., and Aleanious (Wilson) Williams; his beloved wife, Rosena (Hayes) Williams; and all of his siblings. He was the last surviving sibling of the Wilson-Williams family.

Willie D. “Tarzan” Williams will be remembered for his quiet strength, his devotion to family, his gentle humor, and the love he so freely gave. His life was a testament to service, devotion, and legacy, and his quiet but strong presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.