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.