History

Our History

Floyd A. Williams Funeral Home’s Commitment to a Multicultural Boston Community



For over 50 years, Floyd A. Williams Funeral Home, Inc. has steadfastly served the diverse Boston community and its surrounding areas with the utmost dignity and professionalism, guided by the Will and Grace of God.

From a young age, Reverend Floyd A. Williams III felt a profound reverence for the deceased. Driven by a deep desire to care for both the departed and their families, he pursued his dream of establishing a funeral home.

In February 1974, he and his family purchased the building at 490 Columbia Road from the Chapman family.

At 11,000 square feet, the facility underwent extensive renovations to achieve a multicultural ambiance while preserving its stately appearance. Originally, the lower floor's lobby featured mirrored walls on the right and the entrance to the main chapel on the left. This space warmly welcomed families and friends.

The building originally housed two chapels, each equipped with antique organs. The main chapel, seating 75 people, had soft rose-pink walls, maroon chairs and carpeting, and classic Bostonian architecture with white trim. Large windows provided a serene atmosphere with natural light. The second chapel, named in honor of Rev. Williams' late grandmother, Adele Brown, featured a more pastoral setting with wooden floors and benches.

Guests could relax in two tranquil sitting rooms, each furnished with reclining chairs and large aquariums. The lower level included the arrangement room, embalming room, and storage areas, while staff rooms and living quarters were upstairs. Rev. Williams took great pride in maintaining the facility, ensuring it reflected the high standards of care and professionalism he established.

Rev. Williams has demonstrated unwavering dedication, rooted in his faith and commitment to serve others. Despite the challenges of building a business as an African American in the U.S., he persevered. His inspiration came from his late grandmother, Adele, who instilled in him the teachings of Marcus Garvey: “If you have no confidence in yourself, you are twice defeated in the race of life. With confidence, you have won even before you started.”

As a former U.S. Marine, Rev. Williams’ values of commitment, loyalty, determination, and perseverance were tested and proven, earning him Distinguished Service Medals, including the Silver Star and Purple Heart. His pursuit of excellence is evident in all he does.

In addition to founding Floyd A. Williams Funeral Home, Inc., Rev. Williams served on the Massachusetts Board of Funeral Directors and Embalmers for five years, becoming the first African American appointed and later the Chairman.

Rev. Williams is a respected Bostonian known for his compassion and advocacy within the Diaspora. The community trusts him for support and guidance, making the family-owned funeral home a cornerstone of solace and strength. Today, the home not only serves New England but also offers End of Life Planning, Funeral, and Cremation Services both domestically and internationally. The mission extends to bereavement counseling, personal growth, wellness, and estate planning, all contributing to sustaining legacies, no matter the size.

The Williams family's commitment continues with Tracey, Debbie, Sean, and Dahria, who have all worked for “Dad.”

Dahria Williams-Fernandes, Rev. Williams’ youngest daughter, has followed in his footsteps, becoming a funeral director and the first African American woman appointed to the Massachusetts Board of Funeral Directors and Embalmers. She values the lessons learned from her father and views working alongside him as a tremendous blessing.

With the addition of Pastor John Fernandes, her husband and a rising funeral director, the family's positive influence and growth continue.

Everyone at the funeral home shares a spiritual commitment, enhanced by serving families of diverse nationalities and religions.

This has deepened their understanding of social and economic struggles, both in times of loss and everyday life.

Dahria, now president of the funeral home, plans to uphold and expand upon her father’s legacy. She has added a feminine touch to the business, with a focus on the needs of families through a fresh perspective on loss.

Dahria and her partner, Jenelle A. Johnson, reflect Rev. Williams’ standards and commitment. Jenelle ensures that families' needs are met with respect and personalization, honoring various cultural traditions.

As Floyd A. Williams Funeral Home moves forward, its professionals remain dedicated to its founding principles: serving all faiths and nationalities with compassion. The team strives to exceed expectations, with a focus on professionalism, respect, dignity, and love. This commitment has earned the trust and loyalty of the community, affirming that the funeral home is not just a place of service but truly a ministry.