Carlton James Williams

Carlton James Williams, 63, passed away peacefully on September 8, 2024. LCPL Williams was born on September 17, 1960, in Washington, District of Columbia, to Marvin and Barbara (Hutchinson) Williams. He was the fourth oldest of five children. Carlton was blessed as a baby at Florida Avenue Baptist Church in Washington, D.C. After graduating from McKinley Technical High School, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in October 1979. After serving his country, he was discharged at the rank of LCPL—Lance Corporal, receiving an honorable discharge in 1981, with the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (2nd award) and Rifle Marksmanship Badge.

Upon his return home in 1981, Carlton began his journey in various roles that shaped his life, ranging from sales consultant to site acquisition specialist, interior/exterior roofing expert, and lead product specialist. These diverse roles allowed him to develop a wide range of skills, all of which contributed to his growth and success.

In the spring of 2024, Carlton became the assistant tennis coach at Laurel High School, working alongside his wife, Annette. Though Annette held the title of head coach, they were always a team. Carlton never allowed his illness to interfere with his dedication to his players and the team. Together, they coached and trained their students not only to become better tennis players but also to grow into young men and women who give back to the communities they serve. Carlton’s passion for the game and his unwavering commitment to his students were always at the forefront of everything he did. He could often be found with the remote in hand, watching the Tennis Channel 24/7, always learning and enjoying the sport.

His passion for the arts led him to attend The National Conservatory of Dramatic Arts in Washington, D.C. in 1996, where he received an advanced professional diploma in Acting. After graduating, he pursued his love for theater and on-screen performances. He appeared in plays such as “Third Year Showcase”, “Any Ordinary Day”, “Dinah Was…”, “The Happiness Days of Your Life”, “When HipHop Lost Its Souls”, and in drama series like “Treme” and “The Twilight Saga” film series.

During the following year, Carlton met the love of his life at Rose Park Tennis Courts. Two years later, they were united in holy matrimony when he married Annette Dawson-Clement on September 17, 1999. They began their life together in the town of Bayou Plaquemine, Louisiana. Three years later they started a family. As a city boy living in the country, Carlton found joy in blending his love for tennis and acting.

Carlton James Williams is preceded in death by his father, Marvin Williams. He leaves to cherish his memory: his wife, Annette Williams; daughter, Tyiece Williams; sons, Langston August Williams and Jameson Frances Williams; Mother, Barbara Williams; one brother, Eric Williams (Lynn); three sisters, Jeri Steven, Marilyn Williams, Chelbe Williams (Larry); grandchildren, Kristin, Nicholas, Vernon, and Carmel; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.