Maxville Burt Williams (Mac) at the age of 77 died peacefully after an extended illness on Sunday, January 23, 2011. He was born November 27, 1933 in Edgecombe County and was the youngest son of 10 children of Ernest and Ada Batchelor Williams. He attended Enfield Graded School, East Carolina University, where he received his BS degree in Social Studies and Master’s Degree in Education. He taught school in Scotland Neck and was principal of Hobgood Elementary School, Headmaster of Enfield Academy and taught Social Studies at Hobgood Academy until his retirement in the year 2000.
He was an author of two books, FIRST FOR FREEDOM and its sequel, STRANGE WIND FROM THE ROANOKE, and a book of poetry, REFLECTIONS; which demonstrates his unique sense of humor and love of word play. He also wrote several plays, THE SCHROONCHERS, and TOLERATION, which was performed by the East Carolina Playhouse Theatre during his senior year of college. The book; FIRST FOR FREEDCOM; was first performed as an outdoor drama in 1976 in Halifax, North Carolina and continues to be performed annually, making it one of the longest running outdoor dramas in North Carolina. As an avid golfer, he was proud to be able to say he had scored two hole-in-ones. He continued to love the game of golf even when he was no longer able to play.
Preceding him in death are his mother and father, Ada Batchelor Williams and Ernest Williams; two sisters; Eula Davis and Ella Balance; five brothers; Andrew Jackson, Clayton, ‘Red’, Tom, and Ernest King Williams.
He is survived by his wife, Mary Lois Williams of the home, one daughter, Libbe Williams Sasser and her husband, Tommy and their son, Thomas Sasser III of Nashville, North Carolina and one son, Maxville Burt Williams, Jr. of Kinston, North Carolina; one brother; Russell Williams; and one sister; Millie Bryan, both of Rocky Mount, North Carolina, and many nieces and nephews.
Once at a family gathering a man (i don’t remember )was talkin’ real loud while eating and food was fallin’ from his opening and Mac said “Mr. you said a mouth full then”
Mac Williams was a good friend, golf and tennis companion and professional colleague. My deepest sympathy to Mary Lois and family.
Ben T. Brooks–former principal, Now at Oak Island, NC
Mac was a special friend, almost “God Father” to all of us who had the pleasure of bringing his book to life. Acting as one of his real-life Revolutionary War characters was an experience I will never forget, which would have never happened, but for him.
Knowing Mac all his life I saw the positive impact he had on so many others, the recognition he brought the area, and honor to himself. He was brilliant, loving, and one I proudly call friend. ‘We’ll miss you Mac, you are a true gentleman.
A kind and loving gentleman.
It was an honor to have known him.
Just wanted to let you know that we are thinking and praying for you for the days to come. You both are special people in so many hearts! May God continue to look over you and your family. Love you
Ms. Williams I was saddened to hear about your husband. As an educator he gave so much of himself to others and what strong character one must have to spend their life in that profession. I will keep you in my prayers.
Dianne H. Boseman
HR Block
I’m very sorry to hear about the loss of Mr. Williams. I’m going to miss his warmth, his creativity and, especially, his sense of humor.
sorry about mr. williams. anthing we can do let me know
truely sorry about Mr. williams. he will be missed by many people. If the family needs anything we are here for you. all of you are in our prayers
My sincere condolences to you all, Mrs. Williams, Burt, and Libby and families.
I have very fond memories of Mr. Williams, and held him in high esteem.