Submitted photo
Williams Foods opened its doors to host the Douglas Rotary Club’s weekly meeting. The family operated business recently celebrated it 75th anniversary. The Club welcomed the two newest members of Rotary International, Alyssa Fussell and Jeffery Ingram. Ms. Fussell is the Douglas city planner and assistant community development director. Mr. Ingram is Douglas customer service director. These Rotarians were proposed for membership by Rotarians Steve Bailey and Jim Cottingham.
Following the member induction, Craig McCrary and Chip Guinn reflected on the history and values of Williams Foods, and described the goods and services they provide to schools, restaurants, correctional facilities, and other entities throughout the state. Julius Williams (1924-2003) founded the family business as a slaughterhouse in 1951. While the business was still young and growing, he joined Dan A. Jardine and 24 other community leaders in chartering the Douglas Rotary Club in 1961. He remained an active Rotarian for the next 41 years.
Mr. Williams’ grandson Bert later played an active role in the organization, including his service as president. With the addition of a 40,000 square foot facility in Ware County, the company now employs a staff of 158 – including drivers, warehouse workers, and support personnel who provide goods and services to a customer base that, among others, includes 1200 schools.
Douglas Rotary is a local service organization seeking to advance the ideals of Rotary International by investing time and resources in programs for children and youth, community development, disease prevention, family support, environmental health, and leadership development. Rotary meets most Thursdays from noon to 1 pm at the South Georgia State College Alumni House in Douglas.
Visitors and community members interested in personal and professional growth through community service are always welcome. For more information, please reach out to Clay Lott at 912-327-1921, Paul Elliott at 912-850-9631, or Mark Miller at 540-321-8191.