Motorcyclists memorialize “Big John,” fund scholarships
Published 6:00 pm Sunday, June 22, 2025
Photos by David Lovell | The National Association of Buffalo Soldiers and Troopers Motorcycle Club (Montgomery Chapter) continue to support the ride for fallen Sheriff John Williams. Riders pictured are Dr. Dale C. Braxton Sr., Reverend at Snow Hill Christian Church in Mt. Willing before mounting their bikes. Pictured from left to right: James Weeks, Dr. Dale C. Braxton Sr., Jim Lawson, Willie Edwards, Angelica Willis, Gerry Clark, Robbin Wood and Walter Wood.
Photos by David Lovell | Chance Lovell honors Sheriff John Williams by attending the Rablin’ Thunder Motorcycle Rally.
Photos by David Lovell | Motorcyclists help fund college scholarships by riding in the Ramblin’ Thunder Motor Cycle Rally Saturday.
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Within the shadows of the Lowndes County courthouse, a building that bears the name of the late sheriff John “Big John” Williams, the sound of motorcycle riders revving their engines could be heard throughout downtown Hayneville Saturday. The sound marked the beginning of the sixth annual Ramblin’ Thunder 4/5 Motorcycle Ride.
The event was created to honor Lowndes County Sheriff “Big” John Williams, and the proceeds benefit the Sheriff John Williams Memorial Scholarship Fund. Williams would have celebrated his 68th birthday June 14.
“We were fortunate enough to give six total scholarships this year amounting to $12,000,” said event founder Daniel Rudolph.
Event organizer Jeff Berry spoke highly of the late sheriff’s legacy felt in the community and the importance of remembering John Williams.
“Big John served this community and sacrificed for this community, so we owe him the honor of imitating the county wide ride,” Berry said. “We want to make a lot of noise to remind people that Big John is very much alive in our hearts and that the work he did in this county deserves that honor.”
The rally has generated around $40,000 total since its inception in 2020 and the money has been used to fund local scholarships for Lowndes County students to further their education.
