Michael Baxter Williams

Michael Baxter Williams, born on September 22, 1954, passed away peacefully in the early hours of February 2, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Atlanta, Georgia, and spent his childhood in Los Angeles, California. As a young adult, he moved to Jackson, Mississippi, before eventually settling in Franklin, Tennessee with his beloved wife—the place he loved most and proudly called home. He will be remembered for his deep devotion to his wife and daughter—a bond that brought him immeasurable joy.

A true musical savant, Michael had an uncanny ability to master any instrument he picked up—ultimately learning to play more than ten with ease. He began his musical journey playing in local bands but found his true calling in sharing his gift through the music ministry at his church. He was also a skilled craftsman who could fix nearly anything, tackling projects with resourcefulness and quiet determination. Fiercely independent, Michael was one of a kind—a singular presence who lived life on his own terms and left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard Jackson Williams and Mattie Louise Williams; his brother, James Frederick Williams; and his grandson, Samuel Patrick Michaels. 

He is survived by his beloved wife, Kristen Dear; his daughter, Catherine “Gretta” Williams Michaels (Patrick); grandchildren Eleanor Louise Michaels, Jameson Alan Michaels, and Catherine Leigh Michaels; his brother, Richard Jackson Williams, Jr. (Donna); his sister, Dorothy Lee Bolten (Joe); and Chloe the cat.

A private burial ceremony will be held at Harpeth Hills Memory Garden & Funeral Chapel on Friday, February 7, followed by a gathering to remember Michael at St. Philip Catholic Church activity hall in Franklin, TN, between 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.