Jake Williams is congratulated by Mayor Otis Johnson during his Anniversary Celebration On November 7, 2009, Williams celebrated fifty (50) years of professional service as a Master Barber (1959 - 2009) to the Savannah community and surrounding areas with a wonderful reception at The Mulberry Inn, held as a tribute to his ever loyal customers, family and friends.

Distinguished guests included Mr. Robert E. James, President of Carver State Bank; the late Rev. Frederick Fearbry, Thankful Baptist Church; Mr. J. Vernard Flowers, Sylvania Funeral Home; Alderman Van Johnson (in absentia), city of Savannah; Mayor Otis S. Johnson, city of Savannah; Chairman Pete Liakakis, Chatham County Commissioners; and Senator Lester G. Jackson, State of Georgia.

Mr. Robert E. James entertained the guests with a delightful greeting, and the late Rev. Frederick Fearbry offered a heart-felt inspirational chat by describing Williams as a “good man.”

Mayor Otis S. Johnson offered greetings on behalf of the City, and presented to Williams a letter of appreciation prepared by Alderman Van Johnson, who was unable to attend the reception.

Chairman Pete Liakakis, Chatham County Commissioners, presented Williams with a Proclamation and proclaimed November 7, 2009 as “Jake Williams Day.”

Senator Lester G. Jackson presented Jake with a Resolution signed by him, and an Outstanding Georgia Citizen Award from Secretary of State Karen Handel. Senator Jackson also invited Mr. Williams to the Capitol on February 4, 2010 for Savannah- Chatham Day, to present him with an award.

Mr. Christopher King, Williams' stepson, presented him with a congratulatory letter from his grandfather, Mr. B. B. King of B.B. King Road Shows. Williams' daughter, Nicole M. Williams presented him with an anniversary plaque on behalf of the family.

Mr. J. Vernard Flowers of Sylvania Funeral Home, distinguished guests, and family and friends reflected on their relationships with Mr. Williams over the past 50 years; with each one having their own distinct story of relevance.

Williams was overtaken by the outpouring of love and support shown to him during the reception. It is because of his committed and loyal customers that he has attained the success that he has been blessed with.

In 1959, Williams studied barbering at the Area Trade School of Denmark, SC (now Denmark Technical College). In 1959, he began his barbering career as an Apprentice at Lampkin's Barber Shop on West Broad Street.

On January 4, 1971, Williams opened and began operating, “Jake Williams Modernistic Barber Shop,” now Jake Williams Hair Center, Inc. at 1104 Montgomery Street at Park Avenue.

Jake Williams Hair Center’s hours of operation are Wednesday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.; and Saturday, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.