Marion Phillip Williams (Papa), age 78 of Malvern, died Saturday, August 29, 2026 at his home, surrounded by his family. He was born in Malvern on June 14, 1948, to the late William Marion Williams and Opal Ward Williams. Reared and educated in Hot Spring County, he was a 1967 graduate of Malvern High School. Early in his career, he worked for ACME Brick. He later attended barber college in Little Rock. Phillip was presently a member and deacon of Rockport Missionary Baptist Church. He was first ordained a deacon by Oak Grove Missionary Baptist Church. Phillip also served as deacon at several other churches he attended over the years. He surrendered to the ministry and preached in numerous churches. He was an avid fisherman, loved woodworking, and singing in the church choir. Spending time with his loved ones, especially his grandkids and great-grandkids, was one of his favorite things. His foremost tradition was attending church on Sunday. Just a week prior to his death, he not only attended, but sang a special at his church. A soft-spoken and loving man, he was strong, resiliant, patient, and kind. He was the husband of the former Francis Elaine Davis, to whom he was married on September 14, 1968 at Lono. 

Survivors include his wife, Francis Williams; son, Richard Alan Williams; grandchildren, Dawson Alan Williams, Jeri Lynn Williams, Keri Elaine Williams, Mallori Rose Williams, and Lillian Grayce Williams; and great-grandchildren, John Augustus Sellars, Elias Don Williams, and Ivory May Williams.

He was also preceded in death by a brother, Billy Ray Williams.

A memorial service will be held at 12:00 noon on Thursday, September 3, 2026, at the Rockport Missionary Baptist Church, with Brother Brad Warren officiating, and under the direction of J. A. Funk Funeral Home.

Memorials are requested to Rockport Missionary Baptist Church, 1609 Dusty Road, Malvern, AR 72104.

Special thanks from the family go to Hospice Homecare nurses Brandi Simmons and Maddi Hardage for their compassionate care of Phillip; and to Brother Brad Warren, for 35 years of friendship, guidance, and respect.

Online condolences may be sent via jafunkfuneralhome.com.