Tributes

The Beginning To God be the glory for all the great things He has done. On February 4, 1971, a legend was born. Some would say the Alderman or Mayor of Dickinson arrived that day, while others knew him as a Wicked City icon, a proud Ambassador of the Class of 1989, a life coach, a mentor, and a loyal friend. His name was Archie Williams Sr. Archie was born to the late Faite Williams Sr. and Daisy Williams, who both preceded him in death. From the very beginning, his life reflected purpose, passion, and an unwavering commitment to uplifting others. At a youthful age he accepted Jesus as his Savior and was baptized at Mt. Carmel Baptist Church in Dickinson, Texas under the pastoral leadership of the late Rev. Charlie Foy. This faith would sustain him throughout his life, keeping him during difficult challenges he faced through the years. Renewing his commitment to Christ he furthered his Christian journey as he united with the House of Hope in League City, Texas under the Spirit-filled guidance of Dr. Chad E. Rankin. How It Went Archie was educated in the Dickinson Independent School District and was a proud member of the Dickinson High School Class of 1989. During those years, he developed a deep love for the game of basketball, a passion that followed him throughout his life. Committed to personal growth and leading by example, Archie pursued higher education at TSTI in Waco, Texas, and Paris Junior College in Paris, Texas. He later earned his Associate of Arts degree from College of the Mainland. Determined to show his children that education matters, Archie continued his academic journey and earned his Bachelor’s of Science degree from the University of Houston–Clear Lake. He often said he would never ask his children to do something he had not done himself and he lived by that principle. Career Path For more than 30 years, Archie was a master barber, a profession that allowed him to connect deeply with people from all walks of life. The barbershop was more than a workplace; it was a space for mentorship, truth, laughter, and life lessons. Driven by a desire to serve the youth more directly, Archie transitioned into education, where he worked as a behavior teacher and special education teacher. He proudly served students and families within Dickinson ISD and Texas City ISD, always advocating for those who needed support the most. The Ultimate Family Man Above all else, Archie was a devoted family man. His greatest pride was his children. Rain, sleet, snow, or shine, he showed up, every time. He taught them the value of commitment: If you start something, you finish it. If you don’t like it, we don’t have to do it again, but when you commit to people, you follow through. Archie didn’t just teach these lessons; he lived them daily. Selfless by nature, he was always willing to help others without expecting recognition or praise. His love was active, consistent, and unconditional. A Legacy Beyond the Game Through basketball, Archie discovered one of his greatest callings, uplifting youth and opening doors to possibility. As a dedicated leader with the Dickinson Select Gators, Houston Hoops, and Lady Ballers AAU programs, he poured his time, knowledge, and heart into every young person he encountered. Archie understood the game, but more importantly, he understood the system around it. He communicated directly with recruiters and coaches, guided families through the complex process, and helped student-athletes see pathways to college through scholarships and opportunity. He taught young players how to present themselves, how to believe in their potential, and how to prepare for life beyond the court. To the youth he mentored, Archie was far more than a coach, he was an advocate, a strategist, and a steady voice of encouragement. His impact on lives in every dream he helped shape, every door he helped open, and every life he touched through the game. A Community Champion Archie was a protector of the people and a trusted voice within the community. Leaders turned to him when truth, perspective, and accountability were needed. Politicians and decision-makers sought his counsel because he spoke not for himself, but for those who needed representation and justice. As a member of the Dickinson 7 Think Tank, Archie worked tirelessly to challenge systems, shape ideas, and push the city of Dickinson toward equity and fairness. He also served on the Planning Committee for the 2020 March of Justice in Dickinson, helping organize a historic moment that amplified community voices and demanded meaningful change. His commitment to education and history was equally impactful. Archie played a key role in establishing the first African American History course at Dickinson High School, ensuring that future generations would learn the stories, struggles, and triumphs too often left untold. Above all, Archie Williams Sr. was a Community Champion, a bridge between the people and power, a guardian of truth, and a force for progress. His legacy will continue to live on through the lives he touched, the systems he challenged, and the love he poured into his family and community. The Legacy of Love Left to cherish his memories is, his wife of 28 years, Dottie Williams; children, Morgan and Archie “AJ’ Williams Jr.; siblings, Teresa Washington, Lawrence Provost (Yvette), Dana Stephens, Faite Williams, Jr., and Jasmine Williams (Deondra); nephews, Herbert Washington II (Jessica), Drew Washington, Sr. (Deltrice), Anthony “Chase” Carroll, Faite Williams III, Marcus Williams and Kameron Williams; nieces, Shandalyn Washington, Chasity Grimes, Taylor Edwards, and Kenadie Jean-Lewis; mother-in-law, Barbara Merchant; father-in-law, Donald Benard; Godchildren, Ryan Anderson, Chelsea Wickware, and Skye Smith; two best friends, Stanley Holmes and Troy Ross; a host of cousins, loving friends, and his beloved Dickinson Community.

Tributes

Archie Williams Sr

February 4, 1971 - January 28, 2026