Phillip Ernest Williams

A service to celebrate the life of Phillip Ernest Williams will be held on Saturday September 12, 2026 at 2:00 P.M. with a reception to follow from 3:00 to 5:00 P.M. at Wade Funeral Home in Arlington, Texas.

Phil passed away peacefully in his Arlington home on August 10, 2026 surrounded by his loving family. Born on July 16, 1955 in Cleburne, Texas, he spent his life devoted to his wife, family, and the electric utility business. Phil married Sonya Kay Archer on June 29, 1973 after spotting her several years before at the Brazos River. He attended school in Rio Vista and worked from a young age at the family business, Williams Sand and Gravel. After obtaining a degree in accounting from the University of Texas at Arlington in 1977 and his CPA certification in 1979, he began a 25-year career at Texas Electric Service Company, which later became TXU. He then continued to work in the electric utility industry for Bryan Texas Utilities, Denton Municipal Electric, and finally at M&S Engineering. He was known for his service and commitment to the community everywhere he went. He was deeply engaged in TPPA, APPA, and ERCOT for work, but he was also known for his service to community organizations including the Arlington Girls Softball Association and Salvation Army.

His faith in God was unwavering. He grew up in the Lone Willow Baptist Church and that foundation guided his life’s work both in business and as a husband and father. He was the ultimate “girl dad”, including coaching both softball and basketball for his daughters through their teenage years. He took joy in the simple wonders of life like a glass of iced tea, a root beer float, a good meal, or a vibrant sunset, and he took comfort in his faith during his prolonged battle with AML.

Known for his infectious optimism and ability to always find a silver lining, he leaves behind a legacy of generosity, humor, hard work, stubbornness, and a deep faith in a higher power.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Sonya; his brother Dale Williams; his daughters and sons-in-laws Crystal Williams and her husband Brian, and Audra Valamides and her husband Jon; and his four grandchildren Cole, Jake, Colin and Dylan; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harles and Helen Williams; his brother Larry Williams, and his sisters, LaDean Wiiliams and Linda Gale Williams.

He was very thankful for the amazing team at UT Southwestern. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS).