Mr. William Charles Beavers passed on March 18, 2018 at Christ Hospital in Oak Lawn, IL. He left a legacy of love of God, family, church, community, and of his people.
William and his wife Retha (who preceded him in death) joined the Catholic parish of Holy Name of Mary Church in the 1970s. He worked lovingly and tirelessly for Holy Name of Mary Church, 11159 South Loomis St. It was not uncommon for him to repair the roof of the church, fill the pop machine at the school, take the Oblate Sisters shopping, and facilitate a fish fry all in one day.
William was a mentor to the young people who attended the church and the school. He coached the Holy Name Mighty Trojans Basketball Team for many years. He understood the importance of family and became a surrogate father to many, because he knew having a father figure would make a difference in a young man’s life.
William was also a dedicated member of Holy Name of Mary Church, Knights of Peter Claver #134. The Archdiocese of Chicago recognized him for his commitment to the Black Catholic Community of Chicago. He received a Certificate of Appreciation from the Holy Name of Mary School Board and was honored for 40 years of dedicated service to the Knights of Peter Claver Holy Name of Mary Council #134, in 2010.
For many years William was a volunteer poll watcher. One of his happiest political moments was the election of Harold Washington as Mayor of the City of Chicago. He was also proud to have participated in the October 16, 1995 Million Man March in Washington, DC with his sons, Charles Eric, Frederick and grandson, Charles II.
Born February 27, 1937 in Jones County, Mississippi, William knew first hand the struggles of African Americans. However, he would not let that deter him: he relocated to Chicago in 1956, and landed his first job at the Museum of Science & Industry repairing the U-5 submarine in preparation for its exhibit. He served in the United States Army from 1960-1966. He continued his education, earning a Bachelor of Science in Education from Chicago State University. William was a proud union member and worked at ACME Steel Continental for over 30 years.
William leaves to carry on his legacy his children, Charles Eric (Michele) Beavers, Vanessa Maria Beavers, Frederick Paul (Cynthia) Beavers and Kathleen Denise Beavers; his grandchildren, Charles Eric (Carletha) Beavers II, Brittany Michele Beavers, Frederick Paul Beavers, Jr., Camille Avery Beavers and Ellis William Beavers; and a host of other relatives and friends.
Services for Mr. William Beavers were held on March 24, 2018 at Holy Name of Mary Church.
