In Loving Memory of

Stephen Jerrold Williams Jr. “Sunny Black”

December 25, 1974 – June 22, 2026

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Stephen Jerrold Williams Jr., lovingly known as “Sunny Black” or “Squab,” who departed this life on June 22, 2026, in Knoxville, Tennessee. Stephen was born on December 25, 1974, in Des Moines, Iowa, where his story began. Stephen had a life marked by laughter, creativity, resilience, and an unforgettable personality.

Stephen never met a stranger. He had a gift for making people laugh, whether through his stand-up comedy style, playful teasing, or cracking jokes with family and friends. His smile was contagious, and his sense of humor could brighten even the darkest days.

A talented chef, Stephen enjoyed preparing meals that brought people together. He was also known as the person who could fix just about anything, always willing to lend a helping hand. His artistic abilities reflected his creative spirit, while his later-in-life fascination with conspiracy theories often sparked conversations that left others thinking long after they ended.

Stephen was affectionately known by two nicknames that reflected different parts of his personality. He was lovingly called “Sunny Black” because of his handsome appearance and the bright, sunny smile that could light up any room. He was also known as “Squab” short for **“Squabble”**a nickname earned for his reputation as a formidable street fighter. Though life shaped him in many ways, those who knew and loved Stephen will remember him most for his unwavering loyalty, infectious laughter, generous heart, and deep love for his family

Stephen was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Raylena Williams; his father, Stephen Jerrold Williams Sr., U.S. Army; his maternal grandparents, Frances Mae Morrison and Cleo D. Morrison, U.S. Army; and his paternal grandparents, Lucy Willis and Logan Willis.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory his loving mother, Terry Dobbins; his sons, Deontya of Houston, Texas; Don’ Taevis of Des Moines, Iowa; his daughter, Tajah of Norfolk, Virginia; and his treasured grandchildren, Serenity, Dejonte, and Demri McMillan.

Stephen is also survived by his devoted sisters, Sonya, Chasidy, and Tiffany; three nieces; six nephews; his lifelong best friends, Jerry Clark and Jermaine Fristo; his beloved godchild, Demarko Moore; and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

Stephen’s legacy is one of laughter, love, resilience, and authenticity. Whether he was cooking a meal, creating art, fixing something broken, sharing one of his unforgettable stories, or making everyone around him laugh, he left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Though he is no longer with us in body, his spirit lives on in the countless memories he created and the love he gave so freely.

“Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure. You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.”