Perry L. Williams
1955-2021
Perry Lynn Williams was born June 5, 1955, to Chester and Kathleen Williams in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He grew up in south Oklahoma City enjoying hunting and auto mechanics with his dad. He graduated from U.S. Grant High School in 1973 and married Cynthia Vanderburg in 1976. From this marriage two sons were born, Zachary Nolan and Lucas Caine.
Perry worked in the energy industry for twenty years before embracing his call to ordained ministry in the United Methodist Church. He completed a B.A. in Religion at Oklahoma City University and a Master of Divinity at Saint Paul School of Theology. He married Amy Oden in 2004. Perry also completed a Doctor of Ministry at Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, D.C. He served churches in Oklahoma, Kansas, and Maryland.
Perry was warm and loving and especially enjoyed the outdoors, mountain biking and music. He played guitar daily and composed many songs. Perry lived a contemplative life, committed to social justice. He witnessed to the full inclusion of all as beloved by God.
He is preceded in death by his son Zachary Williams, his parents Kathleen and Chester Williams. He is survived by his son Lucas and wife Lindsey Williams and their children Mason and Delaney of Edmond; wife Amy Oden of the home and her son, Walker and wife Amanda Lindley of Seattle, WA; sister Shirley Potter of Tulsa; sister Kay Matthesen of Midwest City; brother Larry and wife Brenda Williams of Blanchard; sister Kathy and husband Dennis Moody of Bixby; sister Carmen Williams as well as many nieces and nephews and a host of family and friends.
A memorial service will be held Sunday, November 7, at 2pm at Bishop Angie Smith Chapel on the campus of Oklahoma City University. Please wear a mask inside. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to Oklahoma Earthbike Fellowship (link here) or the charity of your choice.
My love & prayers are sent to all His family.
I will always remember Perry and his guitar at University United Methodist Church in Maryland and his utter devotion to his wife Amy. My heartfelt sadness at the family’s loss, especially during these difficult times. May the Good Lord Remember you all, and fill you with His gentle peace and comfort.
To Amy and to all Pastor Perry’s family, blessings and condolences – may you all be covered with the healing that can come only from the Divine touch. I’m so sad to hear of his passing.
Dearest Amy and family , I am so very sorry for your loss. Perry was a true mentor and guide for me as a new Christian at WFUMC. My heart is with you all.
Perry was a mentor for me when I was new in ministry. I will forever be grateful for his attentive listening and encouragement. Praying for God’s peace and comfort for all of his family
I am Thankful that our ministry paths crossed in Hyattsville, Maryland. My prayers and condolences to Perry’s entire family. Blessings.
I am Thankful that our ministry paths crossed in Hyattsville, Maryland. My prayers and condolences to Perry’s entire family. Blessings.
Perry was a great friend and pastor. He helped me through greatly when I lost my brother. He taught me why I find myself most at home in the Methodist church after a life time of searching. His spirit was emdomitable and he was a light to those who knew him. My prayers go out to all those Parry left behind. Peace and Grace