Eric Martin Williams

Eric M. Williams, 62, passed away June 6, 2026, following a battle with cancer. Born June 4, 1964, in Saginaw, Michigan, he was the son of the late Robert H. and Barbara C. Williams.

A beautifully chaotic soul, Eric was a man of immense depth, brilliant humor, and quiet, profound kindness. Eric knew exactly who he was. He lived his life on his terms guided by a strict ethos of loyalty, deep connection, and an occasional penchant for left shoes.

Music was Eric's passion expressed through his songwriting and Tele Deluxe. He was a creative force in Flint's underground music scene in the 1980s and 90s, fronting a number of bands including The Need, Splatter Process, and The Immaculate Love Carrots. Though life and circumstances ultimately challenged his ability to create, the music never truly left him. 

Eric also was a raconteur. In conversation there was a quiet brilliance and mirth to his insights, talking about the now, the future, and the beauty of the universe. He'd read all the books, seen all the films, listened to all the records, he knew all the references in the most casual way, He'd listen to your every word and when he caught the point he'd give you that slight "ha-ha!" which meant the conversation was shifting. Where to was anyone's guess, but it wouldn't be boring.

He liked to think of himself as harsh but beneath his "grumpy old man" exterior lived a deeply sensitive soul who loved his family, loved being a dad, loved his friends, his tribe.

It's often said that at the end of life, people won't remember what you said or did, but how you made them feel. For Eric life was all about feel. That friendship is not just something you have, but something you do. It's built on a thousand small acts of love repeated across decades. Because of him, his tribe is stronger, kinder, and more connected.

Eric's chair at the table may be empty now, but his place in the hearts of those who loved him never will be. His tribe will keep telling the stories, laughing at the old movie lines, and singing just a little too loudly.

Eric is survived by his former wife, Jennifer Whiting; his daughter, Jessica Whiting; his brothers, Chris Williams (and partner Erica Downs) and Harry M. Williams; his niece, Alexandria Williams; his nephew, Jackson Williams; and his aunt, Pamela Crnolatic. He also leaves behind a sprawling, deeply loving chosen family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert H. Williams and Barbara C. Williams, and his uncle, Mathew Crnolatic.

A gathering to celebrate Eric’s life, music, and stories will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, turn up the music, hug someone you love, and tell them without hesitation.