Raybert Lee Williamson, Sr.

Raybert Lee Williamson, Sr., 87, of Wharton, passed away on September 15, 2023. He was born on October 4, 1935 to the late Burnett and Lydia Williamson. 

Ray was born in Cullman, AL and moved to Wharton where he graduated from high school. He met and married Shirey Frankum on July 3, 1955. They were married for 68 years. They had three children, Raybert Lee Williamson, Jr., Debbie Quarles and Jeff Williamson. Ray started as a butcher at Sansing’s Super Market in Wharton and several years later becamethe owner. His business evolved into BJ’s minimart in the early 1990’s. BJ’s was best known for their great coffee where customers flocked everyday for a cup and conversion. Mr Ray and Ms Shirley served the public through their store until their retirement in 2019.

Ray was a fireman for the Wharton Volunteer Fire Department for many years where he also served as the Fire Chief. He was President of the State Firemans and Fire MarshalsAssoc in 1984. He remained a member for over 30 years. He was also a councilman for the City of Wharton. 

Ray loved boating and fishing. He spent countless hours in the gulf finding his perfect spot each time. Family vacations were always built around fishing trips. In addition to his parents, Ray was preceded in death by his two sons, Ray Williamson, Jr. and Jeff Williamson, brothers, Ronnie Williamson, Doyle Williamson and sister, Amy Joyce Andrews.

Ray is survived by his wife, Shirley Williamson and daughter, Debbie Quarles and husband, Bob, brothers, Lelden Williamson and Keith Williamson and wife, Christine, Grandchildren, Brandon Quarles and wife, Amber, Angela Winkenwerder and husband, Brandon, Brady Quarles and wife,Lauren, Destiny Williamson and Raybert Williamson, III. He has nine great grandchildren and one great great grandson.

Funeral services are under the direction of Wharton Funeral Home. Condolences can be left at whartonfuneralhome.com