Malachi Williams

My African American Heritage

by Malachi Williams

I am one of three children born to my mother and father. I am currently a senior at Holmes County Central High School. I am grateful to have parents and grandparents who have instilled in me the belief that with hard work and dedication, I can achieve anything I set my mind to, regardless of my circumstances.

  While I may not know much about my broader heritage, I can proudly share the story of my paternal grandfather. He is a man of hard work, dedication, character, and strength. As one of eleven children, my grandfather graduated from Lexington Attendance Center in 1974. However, his education was often interrupted by the need to work in the fields. He states that, for many weeks, he only went to school one day a week. He and his siblings would have to plant, chop, and pick cotton by hand in extreme heat conditions. They worked from sunrise to sunset. He really could not participate in extracurricular activities because he did not have the time.

  Around 1980, he attended Holmes Community College to pursue a career in welding. He was one of two students in the class to pass the welding test. Unfortunately, he was unable to obtain his certification at the time because at that time he did not have $25 to meet the certification requirements. A few years later, he would return and take night courses in heating and air conditioning. He passed the class and became certified. This would shape his future.

  My grandfather went on to work at the Holmes County State Park, where he spent 30 years. He started as a groundskeeper, but after five years, he was promoted to maintenance supervisor. He was responsible for the upkeep of the park’s grounds. In this role, he managed upkeep, including landscaping, building maintenance, and repairs to the heating and air systems.

  In 2001, he and my grandmother built “One Stop,” a convenience store in the rural Acona Community. At the time, residents had to travel 15–20 miles for basic necessities. The store provided not only essential goods, such as milk, bread, and gasoline, but also employment opportunities for local residents. More than 20 years later, One Stop remains the only store in the area, continuing to serve the community.

  My grandfather has played a significant role in shaping the person I am today. His influence taught me the value of a strong work ethic and helped me overcome complacency. From the age of six, I spent countless days riding with him on his farm. Over the years, I learned how to drive a tractor, bale and haul hay, care for cattle, and even administer shots when needed. Every summer, I worked alongside him to prepare hay for the cattle’s winter feed, often starting at 6:00 a.m. and working until nightfall.

These experiences instilled in me a strong sense of discipline and an appreciation for hard work, qualities that continue to shape my life today.