W. Warner Williams
1933-2017
W. Warner Williams, Sr. died in Opelika, AL March 15, 2017 following a brief illness.
A native of Opelika, Mr. Williams was born July 1, 1933. He graduated from Clift High School in 1951. He received a BS degree in industrial management from Alabama Polytechnic Institute (Auburn University) where he was a member of Alpha Tau Omega fraternity. Following graduation, Mr. Williams served in the U.S. Army with postings at the Pentagon, Tokyo, and South Korea.
Mr. Williams had an eminent career in business and community service. He was widely recognized as one of Alabama’s most prominent bankers and advocates for community banks. He was also known for his broad smile and ability to engage with all people from all walks of life. Many people over the years received his thoughtful notes written in his perfect hand writing.
Mr. Williams worked with Owens-Corning Fiberglass, Castone Corporation, and West Point-Pepperell. He is most recognized for his 30-year career with Farmers National Bank, where he served as president from 1990-1998. Continuing education in banking included the Banking School of the South at LSU and the Executive Management Course of the Harvard School of Business.
Mr. Williams accepted leadership positions in a variety of community organizations. He served as chairman for the United Way, Junior Achievement of the Chattahoochee Valley, and Achievement Center Foundation. He was president of the Opelika Chamber of Commerce, Opelika Community Chest, Alabama Society for Crippled Children and Adults, Achievement Center Board, East Alabama Food Bank Board, and Opelika Kiwanis Club. He served on the boards of the Opelika Downtown Business Association, Opelika Historical Society, and the Alabama Community Bankers Association. He was also a member of the Alabama State Advisory Board of the U.S. Small Business Administration, and the National Easter Seals House of Delegates.
Mr. Williams was honored in 2004 with Opelika’s Distinguished Service Award, a reflection of his esteem, ability, and accomplishments within Opelika and Lee County.
In 2013, the new W. Warner Williams Water Resource Park was named in his honor in recognition of his many years of leadership with the Opelika Water Board. He joined the Water Board in 1983 and served as chairman since 1998.
Mr. Williams was a lifelong member of the First United Methodist Church of Opelika, where he was a member of the administrative board. In addition, he was an Eagle Scout and received the Order of the Arrow distinction.
The family will greet visitors at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home Friday, March 17 from 5:00-7:00 p.m.
Graveside services will be held Saturday, March 18 at 10:00 a.m. at Rosemere Cemetery. A celebration of life memorial will follow at 11:00 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church of Opelika. Both services are open to all who would like to attend.
Gifts may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Opelika, 702 Avenue A, Opelika, AL 36801.