Through Challenges & Changes Black World War II Veterans Turns 106 Years Old

Joseph Williams, an African American World War II veteran from Tallahassee, Florida, has recently turned 106 years old. His long life reflects a century of service to his country and devotion to his community.

Williams was born on September 30, 1919, to Thomas Williams and Henrietta Folks. In his early years, he worked at a turpentine plant before joining the U.S. Navy. He served in the Pacific Theater, which refers to the vast area of military operations in the Pacific Ocean and its surrounding regions from 1941 to 1945.

After returning home, Williams attended Old Lincoln School in Tallahassee and earned a certification in interior decoration. He later worked as a house painter well into his seventies. Beyond his career, he joined Masonic Lodge No. 259 and volunteered as a firefighter. Neighbors in Wakulla County often remembered him for his generosity and willingness to help.

In 2024, Williams received recognition from the Leon County Board of County Commissioners for his dedication to both the nation and his community. That same year, he joined other veterans on an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., where he visited the World War II Memorial for the first time.

Williams has one daughter, Virginia Margaret Herring, along with four grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

His granddaughter Angela Hilliard reflected on his milestone, saying, “Celebrating my Granddad’s 106th birthday is beyond a blessing. To see him reach this incredible milestone, after all he has given to his country and his community, is something most families never get to experience. We are so grateful.”