Thomas D. Williams Sr., the father of television personality Wendy Williams, has died at the age of 94, his family announced today. The news was shared on social media by his granddaughter, Alex Finnie, who described her grandfather as a “loving, wise, and generous” man whose influence extended deeply within his family and community.
Williams’ passing comes amid a tumultuous period for the former daytime talk-show host, who has been out of the public spotlight for several years while facing serious health and legal challenges.
A Lifetime of Family and Influence
Thomas Williams Sr. was the patriarch of the Williams family, long admired by fans for his supportive role in Wendy Williams’ life and career. In February 2025, Wendy was granted a brief reprieve from her court-ordered guardianship to travel to Miami and celebrate her father’s 94th birthday — a milestone she had feared she might miss due to her ongoing health struggles.
Family members have often spoken fondly of Williams Sr. as a stable and encouraging figure. His granddaughter’s tribute highlighted his intellect, warmth, and commitment to family — traits many say he passed down to his children and grandchildren.
Wendy Williams’ Current Struggles
Wendy Williams, 61, has been at the center of a highly publicized guardianship battle for several years, with courts overseeing her health care and financial decisions since 2022. She has fought to regain autonomy, even as legal representatives have cited concerns around her health and cognitive state. In recent months, her attorney announced efforts to end the guardianship and restore more control to Williams herself.
Her absence from the spotlight has been marked by candid discussions from family members, supporters, and legal advocates about her desire to reconnect with loved ones — particularly her father, whose age and health made their time together especially meaningful.
Community Response and Condolences
Since the announcement of Williams Sr.’s death, social media posts from fans and supporters have poured in, expressing sympathy for Wendy Williams and her family. Many highlighted the toll of personal loss intertwined with public scrutiny, and offered prayers for peace and strength during a difficult time.
As the Williams family begins to mourn the loss of a beloved father and grandfather, tributes are expected to continue reflecting the impact Thomas Williams Sr. had on those closest to him.
