Abel Nasir Friday-Williams, 7, of Hickory, passed away on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. Born on January 17, 2019, he was the beloved son of Jarica Williams.

Abel was a bright light to all who knew him; friendly, energetic, loving, and incredibly smart. He carried himself with a kindness and good manners that made him stand out, even at such a young age. A proud 1st grader at Southwest Primary Elementary, Abel enjoyed learning and being around his friends.

He had a deep love for sports and especially enjoyed playing football with the Mountain View Tigers. Whether on the field or at home, Abel brought joy, laughter, and a spirited energy that will be deeply missed by everyone who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his mother, Jarica Williams; his siblings, Grayson, Kaiden, and Zalayah; his aunts, Kenyada Sledge, Brianna Sledge, and Tarica Williams; his uncle, Quayshon Williams; his grandparents, Sabrina Williams and Charles Sledge; his great-grandparents, Sylvia Moore (Mark) and Carolyn Sledge; his great aunt, Mita Ruff; his great uncles, Patrick Ruff, Dustin Brewton; and a host cousins.

He was preceded in death by his great-uncle, Aaron Ruff.

The funeral will be 2:00 PM on Friday, April 10, 2026, at Jenkins Funeral Home Chapel. The family will receive friends from 12:00 PM to 1:45 PM prior to the service in the Jenkins Funeral Home Celebration Center.

Please sign the online guestbook on the Memorial Wall at www.jenkinsfuneralhome.net. The Williams family has entrusted arrangements to Jenkins Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Newton 828-464-1555.