The Minutes of the Annual Williams-Tyler Family Reunion, 2009

69th Meeting of the Williams-Tyler Families

On Saturday, May 2, 2009, about twenty members of the Williams and Tyler families gathered in reunion in the fellowship hall of Willow Swamp Baptist church near Norway. The meeting began at 11:30 and was called to order by the president, Kellum Allen. The group stood and pledged allegiance to the American flag.

Minutes of the 2008 reunion were read by Belva Bailey, and approved following some date corrections. The treasurer’s report, given by Jimmy Williams, showed a negative balance of $195. Information provided in 2008 as to the financial status was in error. Jimmy stressed the need for family members to contribute and also asked that addresses be updated on the master list.

The following deaths were reported:

  • (1) Joe P. Dufford died January 26, 2009 in Summerville, SC, a son of the late Phillip and Roberta Williams Dufford.
  • (2) Freddie Ann Bell died December 17, 2008, in Wilton, CT, a daughter of the late Fred Bell and Audrey Anderson Bell.
  • (3) Wyman Loren Williams, Jr. died January 12, 2009 in Boone, NC, a son of the late Dr. Wyman L. and Lorraine Hendry Williams.

Births are recorded in the private section of the site and the paper file copy of Williams/Tyler Reunions; they are not included in the public minutes for security reasons.

Kellum called the name of the various families and present descendants brought information on their branches of the family. Most families were represented, descending from Laura Belle, Charles Hiram, Oscar Tyler, Shelley, Bragg, Annie Lou, Aubrey, Ollie Mae and Wyman.

Kellum welcomed the group in reunion and made meaningful comments about the importance of family. Families give us roots and wings. “Drinking from wells we did not dig and sitting in shade of trees we did not plant.”

Another family lesson, he continued, is that each of us is unique and has a special place. It is a family responsibility to realize this uniqueness in its members and help develop it to its fullest potential. Loyalty is also taught by family. Families teach us to put aside differences and stand by each other.

Leland gave information to the group about the family website maintained by David Williams. It contains a “living” version of Wyman’s family history and much more. The website can be found at http://www.kayakero.net/per/gen/brief_record/br_toc.html. Corrections and updates to the family history should be sent to David at davewill@kayakero.net. Brenda Bell Jillson agreed to serve as picture liaison to David Williams. David’s address is 17 Sunset Dr. Alexandria, VA 22301. Tel (703) 684-5430.

Al Brodie brought his book which contains the descendants of the Tyler family from 1604-2008. The book is available for purchase.

The nominating committee presented the slate of officers for next year which were approved by acclamation:

  • Pres: Kellum Allen
  • Sec: Belva Bailey
  • Treas: Jimmy Williams

Following the blessing the family enjoyed a bountiful meal and spent time visiting and sharing stories.

Respectfully submitted,

Belva Bailey, Secretary

Williams - Tyler homepage