Manuel Gene Williams

Manuel Williams, 70, of Rutherfordton, passed away September 24, 2026, following a sudden illness. Born October 17, 1955, in Cleveland County, he was the son of Buford Williams and Bonnie Schism Moore. He graduated from West Lincoln High School and worked 40 years at Carolina Mills, as well as a number of years at Outdoor Color. In more recent years, he put his many talents to work for a number of clients as a carpenter, gardener, and handyman.

Manuel was a master of many trades, and he brought an amazing work ethic to all of them. He cared about quality, and he made sure things were done just right. Away from work, he loved tending his garden and his chickens. He loved rooting for Carolina Tarheel basketball, a joy he shared with his son, Tyler. Tyler will always treasure the building projects they took on together and will deeply miss talking with his dad every day.

He was kind and gentle, always good and willing to help, and he had a way of listening that made people feel heard. When he gave advice, it was good advice. His brother-in-law Randy Powell was his best friend, and the two talked every day, sharing about their lives. Above all, Manuel loved his family. He was devoted to his wife, Diane, whom he called his Queen. Time with her meant more to him than anything else, and just sitting with her in their sunroom watching TV brought him joy. Together they made a home for their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. There was always a warm welcome, a place at the table, and breakfast waiting, because Manuel always made breakfast for everyone.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Bonnie Schism Moore, and his granddaughter, Brittany Short. He is survived by his wife of 20 years, Diane Williams; his children, Tyler Williams of Vale and Stephanie Worley and husband John of Belmont; his stepchildren, Gary Hill and Melinda Hodgeand husband Drew, all of Rutherfordton; his grandchildren, Peyton Williams, Sadie and Jacob Worley, and Jennifer Short of Charlotte; his great-grandchildren, Madalie and Mason, to whom he was PawPaw Manuel; his father, Buford Williams, and wife Elaine of North Wilkesboro; brothers Billy Williams of Vale and Nathan Williams and wife Carol of Vale; sisters Priscilla Bess of Vale and Audrey Leatherman and husband Eric of Vale; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

The Funeral will be at Beam’s Funeral Home in Marion, NC on Monday, September 28 th at 2:00 p.m. The family will be receiving friends from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Interment will follow at the Eternal Hills Cemetery in Rutherford County.