Reflecting on the life of

Reverend Raymond Williams

Founder of Mt. Zion Progressive Missionary Baptist Church

Sunrise December 1898  -   Sunset  October 2008

Reverend Raymond Williams was born on December 25, 1898 to the late Dan and Winnie Williams in Alachua County in the state of Florida.  He was the eldest of eight children.  He was born under the name of Esau and in later years, he changed his name to Raymond and has worn that name  every since.   

As he was able to see December 25, 1998 to make the 100^th mark, that marked another milestone in our pastor emeritus’ life.  He was truly a living legend in his own time, a living encyclopedia, with a wealth of knowledge and he is better than Webster’s dictionary to give new meaning to so many words. 

In summary, this was truly a man sent from God, always caring, willing to help others, opening his door to strangers and always being there to listen as many poured their hearts out to him. It was an honor just to be in his presence. Reverend Raymond Williams was the oldest known minister in the city of Rochester.   For a man to reach the century mark called for more than just a celebration, it called for a mark in the history book.

 Reverend Williams retired as pastor of Mt. Zion Progressive Missionary Baptist Church in the year of 2000 due to his age and failing health. He was unanimously voted as "Pastor Emeritus" in February 2001 and will forever be remembered as Pastor and Founder of Mt. Zion Progressive Missionary Baptist Church.   This world was not his home, he was just a pilgrim passing through. 

He  will always have his place in our history book, and now that he has reached the great beyond, he has certainly left his mark in today’s society.  Reverend Williams has walked in shoes that no other man will be able to fill.  We loved him and give God the praises for allowing him to have touched our lives.  Reverend Raymond Williams was called home to be with the Lord on Sunday, October 12, 2008 .   He will always be remembered as our "Little Giant."  He has a brand new home now and the address is as follows:  His street and address number is Heaven; his state is In The Sky; His zip code is Somewhere Around God's Throne.  If you want to see him again, come on up to bright glory, he'll be waiting up there.