There has been a change regarding the memorial service for the late former Apopka City Commissioner Alonzo Williams Jr., who died on January 9 at age 85 in Albany, Ga.

The change is that instead of New Hope Missionary Baptist Church as previously planned, the service will take place at the Apopka Community Center/VFW Building, 519 S. Central Ave., on Saturday, January 27, at 10:30 a.m. The repass will immediately follow the service, also at the VFW Building.

Flags will be at half-staff throughout the city from Friday, January 26 to Sunday, January 28, the weekend of the service.

Apopka Mayor Bryan Nelson will read a proclamation at the service in honor of Commissioner Williams’s legacy. The mayor will then a read a proclamation at the Wednesday, February 7 City Council meeting in Commissioner Williams’s honor as well.

Alonzo Williams Jr. made Apopka history as the first African-American city commissioner. He was elected commissioner in 1970 and served for 24 consecutive years. Concurrently with his time on the City Council, Williams served on the board of the Lake Apopka Natural Gas District.

He was also a businessman who owned local restaurants and the first business manager of the Progressive Senior Citizens Club.

He is survived by his family including his wife Betty, son Alonzo Williams III, and brother Dr. Robert Williams.