Ernest Sanford “Ford” Williams (April 22nd, 1953 – February 16th, 2025)

Ernest Sanford “Ford” Williams of Tuscaloosa, AL passed away on February 15, 2025.

He was born on April 22, 1953, in Tuscaloosa to Cecil Butler Williams and Ernest Going Williams. After graduating from Marion Military Institute, Ford continued his education studying journalism at Washington and Lee University where he was a member of the Sigma Nu Fraternity. Following his college graduation, Ford moved to Jacksonville, FL to begin his career in the paper industry. After working there for several years, he returned to his roots in Tuscaloosa to continue his career working alongside his father at Affiliated Paper Company. He later owned and operated Fair Contracting Inc. and co-owned and managed Cypress Creek Landfill.

Ford enjoyed being a member of The DCH Foundation where he served as a past president. He was also a member of the University of Alabama President’s Cabinet, West Alabama Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club, Newcomen Society and the First Presbyterian Church.

Ford is survived by his beloved wife Frances Fulton Williams, his children Christopher “Gentry” Williams (Kimber) and Mary Ford Williams, and his adored grandchildren Saylor Grace and Sweden Camille Williams. He is also survived by his stepdaughter Francie Galbraith Vancil (Joey) their daughter Leah, and stepson Locke Fulton Galbraith. He is also survived by his siblings Turner Butler Williams (Libba) and Cece Williams Hartley (Kenny), and a host of nieces and nephews. Ford was predeceased by his parents and Audrey Gentry Williams “Bunny”.

Ford was known for his unwavering dedication to his children, rarely missing a baseball game or a cheer competition. He was always his family’s number one fan, especially his granddaughter Saylor, whom he would spend countless hours on the phone gossiping about the latest happenings. Ford touched the hearts of all who knew him with generosity and love. He was always the life of the party and never shied away from having a good time. Gardening was his passion, and Ford was especially proud to have his garden featured in local magazines. He was an avid collector of antiques and fossils of all kinds. Ford loved history, reading, and fishing. His presence will be sorely missed, but his legacy will live on in the memories of his wife, children, grandchildren, and his many friends. To know him was to love him.

A memorial service in celebration of Ford’s life will be held at the First Presbyterian Church on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at 2:00 pm.

A private family burial will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorials be made to The DCH Foundation, The Ernest G. And Cecil B. Williams Endowment Fund at the University of Alabama, or a charity of your choice.