Dallas "Sonny" Williams Jr.

Dallas “Sonny” Williams Jr., 71, of Chebanse, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family and friends on Wednesday, May 8, 2024. He was born October 22, 1952, in Chicago, the son of Dallas Sr. and Gertrude (Woolard) Williams, the oldest of two sons. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, John David, age 2. Dallas is survived by the love of his life and partner in crime, Traci Hardesty who has been by his side for the last 22 years; his daughter, Rebecca “Becky” Williams of Watseka; son, Dallas “Buster” (Jessica) Williams III of Islamorada, Florida; seven grandchildren, Brianna, Brittany, Kaylee, Caitlin, Jace, Caroline, Dallas “Otis” Williams IV, five great grandchildren, Blayne, Adasyn, Brynn, Alivia, and Beckett; as well as a close friend and “adopted son”, Matt (Jeanette) Neblock, and their three children, Ozzie, Brodie, and Leslie of Bradley. He graduated from BBCHS, the class of 1970, growing up the son of a small trucking company owner. He was introduced to work at a young age, working on trucks and eventually hauling cars across the country with the family business until 1978 when he attended Reppert’s Auction School in Decatur, IN. Dallas then made a career in the Auto Auction Industry; along the way he opened and operated Williams Auction Company, A-1 Auction Service, and Dealers Choice Auto Auction. After retiring from auctions in the early 90’s, he turned his hobby of metal working into a business and opened Sure Weld, a welding and fabrication company. Owning many other businesses along the way he always had his hand in something; car lots, taverns, campgrounds, restaurants, the list goes on and on. Dallas also stayed active in the auction industry until a few years ago, doing benefit auctions locally, more than can be counted. Dallas left his mark all over the tri-city area over the years, you wouldn’t have to look far to see his work. It might be the fence around the university you drive by daily, or the chandelier, staircase or even a handrail in a local business. He was a man of many words but could get his point across with just a look. Dallas never met a stranger, and you never knew what would come out of his mouth. He was truly one of a kind. Among all his different hobbies, Dallas was an avid gun collector and enjoyed watching NASCAR. One of his favorite pastimes was cooking for people, no matter the occasion, there would be a feast. He also enjoyed shooting pool, and to “stir the pot”. He would use the current state politics to do exactly that. Dallas had some pretty impeccable wine making skills. He will be greatly missed by his friends and family. Words will never express how special he was. Cremation rites were accorded. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Written by Dallas “Buster” Williams III.