William Qualls, Sr.

William Qualls, Sr. was born June 30, 1935 in Grenada, Mississippi to Marcelos Qualls and Willie Mae Johnson. He was the youngest of two children born to their union. Affectionately called “WM” or “Dub” by those closest to him, William relocated to Saginaw, Michigan as a young teen and went on to graduate from Saginaw High School. William accepted Christ at an early age. He was a member of South 17th Street Church of Christ where he remained a dedicated and active member until his untimely passing.

As a young man William went to work at General Motors (Chevrolet Grey Iron Foundry) as a Skilled Journeyman and Pipefitter. He was a member of UAW Local 668 and retired in 1976.

William developed a love for music which inspired him to become a self-taught songwriter and composer. He learned to play several instruments including the piano, organ and guitar. William could always be found rehearsing any number of tunes around the house. He was a member of several singing groups over the years: Wings of Harmony, Trinity Gospel Singers, Joyland Gospel Singers, and most recently the Sons of Faith, which he co-founded. Prior to the pandemic, William was still serving within the ministry of music as a song leader and mentor.

William was known to be a sharp dresser with a cool swagger. He often dressed to impress, no matter the time of day or occasion. Back in the day, William also dabbled in small electronics and developed a reputation as the local fix-it man due to his ability to read blueprints and repair old televisions.

On Monday, December 6, 2021, William was called into eternal rest where he joined his beloved wife of nearly sixty years, Hattie Lucille Qualls; parents, Marcelos Qualls and Willie Mae Johnson; brother, Marcelos “MC” Qualls, Jr. and special cousin, William Lindberg Johnson.

William leaves to cherish his memory, one son, William E. Qualls, Jr.; two daughters, Sabrina (Freddie) Riggins and Joyce (Monty) Bibbs; a host of nieces, including niece & caregiver, Eunice Wilson; nephews, cousins, relatives and friends.


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