Williams, Claude Odell was born January 3, 1932 in Columbus, Mississippi to Ben and Blannie Williams. He traded time for eternity on December 6, 2014. He spent his early years in Alabama where he attended Wenonah High School and moved to Gary in 1950. A U.S. Army veteran, he served in the Korean War.

After he returned, he worked many years at U.S. Steel. He was later owner of C's Towing and most recently he worked with his brother at Bennie's Towing in Gary. He was a founding member of Jesus' Gifts Church where he served as deacon and Sunday school teacher. Claude was known by relatives and friends to have a kind heart. He enjoyed the company of MJ the dog and also Norton the cat.

An avid sports fan, he spent many hours watching all sports channels. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ben and Blannie Williams; brother, Bennie and sisters, Mamie Wesley and Carrie Tobias. He is survived by his daughters, Karen L. Williams and Kim Austin; one granddaughter, Courtney D. Williams; brothers, Tommie, Marion and Zelmer; three sisters, Oranell McCowan, Inell Lipscomb and Searcy (Darryl) Wilson and close family friend, Gloria Weatherspoon. He is also survived by longtime, faithful companion and caregiver, Ida Brown-Allen. He leaves a host of nephews and nieces and many devoted friends.

Visitation will be held on Friday, December 12 from 9:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. followed directly by service at 11:00 a.m. at Guy and Allen Funeral Home; 2959 W. 11th Avenue, Gary, IN. Interment at Ridge Lawn Cemetery, 4401 W. Ridge Road, Gary, IN. Repast will be at Bennie's Towing, 2160 W. 10th Avenue, Gary, IN.

Published in Post-Tribune on Dec. 11, 2014                 Obituary