Philip C. (Phil) Williams, 63, of Yazoo City, MS, passed away on Thursday, January 8, 2026. The visitation will be Monday, January 12, 2026 from 12:30 to 2:00 pm at First Methodist Church in Yazoo City, MS. and service at 2:00 pm.
Phil was born to the late Charles D. Williams, Jr and Marsha Dunn Williams. He was a graduate of Manchester Academy and later received a Bachelor’s degree in Banking and Finance and an MBA in Finance and Economics from his beloved Ole Miss. He was also a graduate of the Graduate School of Banking at LSU.
Phil followed in his father’s and grandfather’s footsteps at The Bank of Yazoo, where he worked for 39 years. He held many positions including teller, AS/400 computer operator and lender. Phil served as Executive Vice President for several years overseeing the Bank’s operations, information technology, and regulatory compliance efforts. He was a Bank and Holding Company Director and served as Chairman since 2010. He served on the MYB Executive Council, Legislative Committee, Insurance Committee and as Chairman of VEBA Trustees.
Phil was involved in numerous community organizations and served as President of the Yazoo County Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Yazoo, Yazoo Downtowners’ Association and the Yazoo City Lions Club.
Phil is survived by his wife, Lynn Hamilton Williams; two daughters, Katie (Seth) Griffin of Minter City, MS and Laura (Brian) Thompson of Park City, Utah; and his granddaughter, Emery Grace Griffin. He is also survived by his sisters, Missie George of Yazoo City and Mamie Williams of Brownstown, Michigan; one nephew, Tyler George of Fort Worth, TX; his two aunts, Trudy (Art) Gallo of Pauley’s Island, SC and Anna Catherine (the late Buddy) Ferguson of Baton Rouge, LA; and his uncle Charles M. (Beverly) Dunn III of Brandon; along with his extended family and friends who loved him dearly.
Phil, or PopPop, as he was known to Emery Grace, loved to play golf with his buddies, listen to music (Grateful Dead), laugh and joke (with his quick, dry wit) and spend time visiting with his friends. That’s his legacy - not the accomplishments or accolades- but the way he made people feel seen, valued and loved. Hotty Toddy, Phil! You will be dearly missed.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Methodist Church of Yazoo City, French Camp Academy and the Kidney Foundation.
