This is a true loss. He has been there for my family through a lot of really hard times. Actually flew from Hawaii to Gainesville to be with my uncle in the hospital. He has always had a way of making people feel better in terrible times. He told me at my mom's funeral "It's never goodbye, it's I'll see you later."
Chris King
Wow. Grew up going to his church. Since I was born. This is sad.
Jenn Gillihan
My entire family has been members of his church as long as I can remember, he has officiated every death of family members for years and years, we will all miss him terribly, what a wonderful example he has set for all of us. RIP, Brother Raymond Williams; my dad, Herbert Crawford, is very sad of your passing.
Debra Miller
When I left Crestview, and was lost to the world and was a lost vagabond, I kept 2 phone numbers in my back pocket: my momma's and Bro Raymond's.
I remember more than a couple nights when the world had closed in on me and I was finally through, that for some reason, I called, and no matter the hour, this Man of God would answer and he would pray with me over the phone and guide me through whatever trial and tribulation I was going through.
I will forever be grateful for those moments that God used him as a willing vessel to pour out blessings on this ragged lost and battered sinner.
I miss ya, Bro. Raymond, but I take joy in knowing you are at the feet of our Lord and Savior and you have your crown and mansion and are dancing on the streets of gold.
Hallelujah and Praise The Lord.
Kaye Edwards
He always said, "Do as God says, not as I say." He was the first to say no man — pastors included — was perfect and we should never follow a man but follow God. RIP Bro Raymond
Stephanie Cosson Johnson
Rest in peace, Brother Raymond. He loved and served both God and the United States. I've never met another person that was so passionate about our service members and veterans.
Holly Shaw
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This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: HUBBUB: Remembering Brother Raymond Williams