Wilbert Lee Williams

Wilbert Lee Williams

June 23, 1936 – October 19, 2025

Wilbert Lee Williams, 89, of Los Angeles, California, passed away quietly on the evening of October 19, 2025, surrounded by family at his bedside in the hospital.

Wilbert was born on June 23, 1936, in Houston, Texas, to Willie M. Williams Sr. and Era Jane Williams. He was the third of four children. After serving in the U.S. Army, where he was stationed in Hawaii, he returned to Los Angeles, which he loved, and made it his home until marrying the love of his life, Val, and moving to Hacienda Heights.

He worked for CalTrans for 37 years, where he was known for his dependability, sense of humor, and craftsmanship. The friendships he made there lasted throughout his life, and he stayed in touch with many of his co-workers until his passing.

Outside of work, Wilbert treasured the friendships he built in his neighborhood and community. He looked out for the people around him, was always ready with a smile or a helping hand, and never missed a chance to share a laugh or a good conversation. He kept up with friends near and far, and his warmth and humor made him someone everyone was glad to know.

Wilbert had many gifts. He was a skilled sketch artist and painter and had a natural ability with carpentry and detail work. He enjoyed bowling, music, and dancing, especially ballroom and salsa, where his rhythm and charisma always stood out. He loved jazz, blues, and funk, and one of the highlights of his youth was sneaking off to a speakeasy and meeting the legendary B.B. King. Whenever a funky song came on, he would get playful and silly, lighting up the room. He was, without a doubt, the life of the party.

He also loved Las Vegas, the energy, the people, the fun, and he enjoyed going to the horse races whenever he could. At home, he shared a special bond with his dogs, Ludwig and later Jackson, teaching them tricks and skills with the same patience and determination he brought to everything in life.

Like his mother, Era, Wilbert was a phenomenal cook. He was famous among family and friends for his ribs with homemade barbecue sauce, his seafood gumbo, smothered fried chicken, collard greens, and spaghetti, just to name a few. Cooking for others brought him joy, and he would smile ear to ear watching people enjoy his food.

Wilbert also loved teaching and passing along what he knew. He taught his daughter how to use a table saw, how to make the family gumbo, and showed his grandkids how to do yo-yo tricks and sketch a still life. He was patient and careful, and those little lessons filled with laughter and love will always be remembered.

His time in Hawaii left a lasting impression on him and became part of who he was. He carried with him an appreciation for island culture and a calm, easygoing way of life. His love for sushi and that island-inspired rhythm were reminders of the years that shaped his spirit.

Wilbert was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Valaida “Val”, his sister Ruth, and his brothers Willie and Sydney. He missed Val dearly every day. Together they built a life in Hacienda Heights, made many friends, and shared countless adventures, including camping trips, jazz festivals, and football games that brought laughter and lifelong memories.

He is survived by his devoted daughter, Elexa; his loving son-in-law, Brent; and his adored grandchildren, Dexter and Sadie, who were the pride and joy of his life.

Wilbert was eternally young at heart, strong-willed, and determined. Even as he got older, he would joke that his body could not quite keep up with his spirit, but that never stopped him. He kept driving, visiting family, going to barbecues and holidays, and showing up for every game and recital he could. As long as he could move a few inches and make it to that car, he was going to be there, fully present, smiling, and cheering them on.

He will be remembered for his strength, humor, and charm, and for the way he made friends wherever he went. Above all, he adored his family and lived each day with creativity, laughter, and love.

“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

— Maya Angelou

A visitation will be held at Rose Hills Mortuary, located at 3888 Workman Mill Rd, Whittier, California, 90601, on November 3, 2025, from 9:00 am to 10:00 am.

Following the visitation, a graveside service will take place at Rose Hills Memorial Park, 3888 Workman Mill Rd, Whittier, California, 90601, on November 3, 2025, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.

Wilbert Lee Williams will be laid to rest at Rose Hills Memorial Park in the Terrace of the Seasons, Row 10, Lot 1441, Space 3, Gate Number 1, on November 3, 2025.