Kenneth H. 'Chello' Williams

Kenneth Howard Williamson, age sixty-two, of Memphis, Tennessee, passed away suddenly on September 15, 2024 at St. Francis Hospital. Born in Jackson, Tennessee to Howard and Lena Williamson, Kenneth was the beloved brother of Gloria, eleven months younger, and the two were often mistaken as twins. Seven years later, the family welcomed a baby boy, Steve.

Educated in Jackson Public Schools, Kenneth enlisted in the National Guard at the age of seventeen, exemplifying his dedication to service. His early years were filled with adventure as he embraced his passion for motorcycles, which began at age thirteen and led him to establish “Street & Strip” for motorcycle repair at his parents’ home.

At age twenty-three, Kenneth moved to Memphis, Tennessee where he began a decade-long career with the United States Postal Service. His entrepreneurial spirit shone through in the early 1990s when he founded Personal Safety First, LLC. Highlights of his business included the development of a ballast device which resulted in a patent. His innovation also earned him two trademarks.

In 1992, Kenneth married Janiece Harrison, enjoying an enduring friendship until his passing.

Kenneth had a profound love for music, particularly Blues, and was a fan of Stevie Ray Vaughn, Robert Cray, Albert King and Buddy Guy. Kenneth also enjoyed NASCAR, traveling, history and had a natural curiosity for understanding how things worked. After closing his safety business, he taught himself plumbing, showcasing his love for learning.

Kenneth never met a stranger. He is survived by his parents, Howard and Lena Williamson, his sister, Gloria Harper (Mark); brother, Steve; nieces, Morgan and Markayla; nephew, Luther; a cousin who was like his son, Greg; special friend, Angela; his “brothers,” Fred, Reggie, Ford and Leo, and a host of family and friends.