By Joseph M. Morgan

joseph@southerntorch.com

COLLINSVILLE, Ala.— A town like Collinsville can never really replace a leader like Thomas Williams.  It can say thank you.  And Collinsville did that in September with a resolution recognizing his contributions to the community.

Mr. Williams died on June 5 and his funeral was on June 13.  He had served faithfully on the town council from District One since 1992.  He represented his district and the town well.  He was loved and respected by all.

As a councilman, Mr. Williams worked hard to improve conditions in the community.  He did the little things that make life safer and simpler – signs, speed bumps, flowers, sidewalks.  And he had two areas where he invested much of his love.  One was in establishing and upgrading a park near his home.  He wanted there to be a place for children and youth to safely play.  His legacy can still be seen most days by driving by that park and seeing people playing.  He also had a great love for Gregory School.  The building has not been used as a school in close to fifty years.  Mr. Williams led efforts to save the building and preserve its legacy.  Today it is a restaurant, reception hall and community center.

Before election as a Councilman, Thomas Williams had worked in several jobs.  He worked at Piggly Wiggly and Liberty Bank where he could see people from all over the town.  And he drove a school bus for many years, a job that allowed him to love children and ensure their safety.

His first love was his family.  He and his wife Erlinda watched over seven children and three generations of grandchildren.  His daughter Lisa said, “My dad loved a lot of things.  He was a big Auburn football fan. He also coached a softball team named ‘Roadrunners.’ He was big into hunting, fishing, and NASCAR as well. He went to Trade Day every Saturday.  My dad loved the community,” Williams said. “He loved the kids. He was a hard-working and proud man. He didn’t ask much from anyone. I am proud to call him my dad and I am happy that Collinsville honored him.”

Collinsville recently appointed Kathy Jelks to City Council District One.  But she and the town know there will not be another Thomas Williams.  And the town wanted to formally recognize that with this resolution.