Charles "Kenneth" Williams, 81, of South Charleston, passed away Saturday, January 6, 2007, at his home after a brief illness.

He was born on May 19, 1925 in the coal mining town of Acme, WV, the first of ten children born to Mary Agnes and Orville Williams. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Debra Ann Williams; brothers, Richard Williams and Vondon Williams; sisters, Louise Quick, Betty Ramsey, and Carolyn Williams.

Most friends knew him as "Ken", a man of strong convictions and a heart of gold. He served his country as a Yeoman, second class, in the US Navy during World War II, most notably in the Battle of Leyte Gulf aboard the USS McCord. He worked for 36 years at Union Carbide, South Charleston, before retiring.

An avid WVU Mountaineer football fan, he followed the team closely and was thrilled with the team's most recent Gator Bowl victory. Ken also enjoyed bowling with his friends and fishing and hunting in his younger days.

Ken was a dear and special person to many people for many reasons. He cherished his kind neighbors and friends, of whom there are many. A particularly special friend is Tina Stodola who introduced him to the Catholic faith.

Ken is survived by his son, Charles Eric Williams of Dunbar; daughter and son-in-law, Ava Marie and LTC John Shawkins of Colorado Springs, CO; brothers, David, Ray, and Ronald Williams; sister, Shirley Ann.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 10, at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, with Fr. Jim O'Connor officiating. Burial will follow in Tyler Mountain Memory Gardens, Cross Lanes.

Friends may call from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 9, at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, South Charleston, where there will be a wake service at 6:30 p.m.

Arrangements are in the care of Keller Funeral Home, Dunbar.