Otha Donald "Fats" McWilliams

Otha Donald McWilliams, of Bakersfield, died March 6, 2019. He was 82.

"Fats" was born Oct. 16, 1937 Tuscola, Texas, to Benita Black and Joe Monroe McWilliamsHe was married to Rose Ann Myers on May 26, 1956, in Shafter.

He worked in matinenance at Turning Point Rehabilitation.

He is survived by his wife, Rose McWilliams, the love of his life for 62 years;

daughter Kathy Ann Noble and son Gregory Donald McWilliams; grandchildren Tommy Noble, Kayla Noble-Thompson, and Gregory, Shawnel, Nick, Brittany, Noah, Ashley, Cod and Eddie McWilliams. Also, by many great grandchildren, sister LaVern Crawford, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Benita; Father Joe; brothers Drennon and Olin McWilliams; sisters Cleda, Jessie Lee, Jonell and Genieva; and son-in-law Tommy Noble Sr.

Fats was a member of Trinity Life Chapel, where he became a deacon. He loved his church family. He would bring the prisoners from Turning Point to the Wednesday night service so they could give their life to Jesus. He was a very giving man who enjoyed feeding the homeless and people in need.

His door was always open to everyone. His life revolved around his family and friends. His wife was his world, along with his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. His number one thing was taking them all to Hart Park to feed the ducks. He was one of eight children who grew up very close together.

Grandpa/Papa would always say, "I love my papa, and my papa loves me -- beep-beep."

His grandkids and great-grandkids would sing that song back and forth with him.

Viewing was held on March 14, 2019 at Peters Funeral Home, Shafter. Services were held on March 15, 2019 at Trinity Life Chapel, Bakersfield. Graveside burial followed to Shafter Cemetery.