In honor of Father’s Day, Mayor Vince R. Williams reflects in his own words on what fatherhood has taught him—at home and in his leadership of Union City, Georgia.
Fatherhood has always been, for me, a sacred balancing act.
As mayor, associate pastor, and public servant, my days are filled with decisions, ministry, and meetings. There have been many moments when I left City Hall for a church service, headed straight into a community event, and then came home to shift into “Dad mode.”
But to my daughter, Nia, none of the titles mattered. She only ever saw me as “Daddy”
Raising her while carrying the weight of leadership taught me one of the greatest lessons of my life: being present isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being consistent. It’s the heart that counts most.
Yes, there were times I was late for a recital or had to cut a vacation short for a city or church emergency. But in those quiet in-between spaces, I was intentional. School drop-offs became heart-to-hearts. Sunday breakfasts turned into life lessons. Dinner table prayers became a foundation of faith and connection.
Now, as I watch Nia thrive as a compassionate, confident, and resilient young professional woman, I know it wasn’t just what I taught her. It was how I showed up, how I loved, and how I served. She saw me serve my wife Sharon, my faith, and my city. And she saw that my love for her never wavered.
In many ways, my approach to leadership is rooted in fatherhood. Union City and greater South Fulton are growing, evolving, and learning—just like our children do. And just like a father, I believe it’s my role to nurture, protect, and advocate for the well-being of every resident.
One of the proudest milestones in my leadership journey has been improving healthcare access for our community. For decades, families in South Fulton struggled to access basic medical services. After hospital closures left us in a healthcare desert, I refused to accept that as our future.
Because here’s the truth: just as every child deserves a father’s love, every family deserves quality healthcare. It’s not a privilege—it’s a right. That belief drove my relentless pursuit to bring world-class healthcare here. Today, thanks to powerful partnerships with Grady Health System, Fulton County, and the State of Georgia, we’re building a new 20,000-square-foot medical facility right here in Union City. It’s a lifeline for our community, and just the beginning of a healthier, stronger South Fulton.
To every father—especially those balancing leadership, public service, or ministry—I say this: you don’t have to be everything, but you do have to be present. Speak life. Be honest about your journey. Let your children—and your community—see that your strength doesn’t come from your position. It flows from your love, your faith, and your willingness to serve.
As Scripture reminds us: "Train up a child in the way he should go; and when he is old, he will not depart from it." —Proverbs 22:6 (KJV)
This Father’s Day, I celebrate the honor of fatherhood—not just the title, but the transformation it brings. My daughter Nia is my proudest legacy. And every family in this city is part of the legacy we’re building together.
To the fathers balancing the mission and the mantle: you are seen, you are valued, and you are needed. Keep showing up. Keep sowing into your children and your communities. You’re doing better than you think.
In the words of former President Barack Obama: "Any fool can have a child. That doesn't make you a father. It's the courage to raise a child that makes you a father."
Happy Father’s Day. And always remember, I love you, and there ain’t nothing you can do about it!