He found a love for cigars in the Navy. His popular Mississippi Coast shop welcomes all.
Clifton Williams never imagined that his retirement from a 20-year career as a Navy journalist would lead him to become the proud owner of Pass Christian’s beloved cigar shop.
Originally from Chicago, Williams worked for the Chicago Tribune in his youth before enrolling in college. Finding college not to his liking, he decided to join the U.S. Navy, being assigned to Public Affairs because of his prior journalism experience.
Throughout his service, he had the opportunity to travel the world, exploring fascinating destinations from Bali to Spain and Australia.
“That’s the best thing about it is just going all over the world, seeing different places,” said Williams. He mentioned that he had stepped foot on six of the seven continents. “If I had stayed back home in the Midwest, that probably wouldn’t have happened.”
Williams spent 18 years of his service in the fleet, being assigned to ships that could deploy at a moment’s notice. During his time at sea, he discovered a shared enjoyment among his fellow sailors, smoking cigars. He found the simple pleasure of enjoying a fine cigar while witnessing breathtaking sunrises at sea to be therapeutic.
His final duty station was the Navy base in Gulfport where he ultimately retired from the Navy in 2014 after 20 years of service. Because of his love for cigars, he started frequenting Cigars in the Pass, located in downtown Pass Christian.
While he had no intentions of remaining on the Gulf Coast after his military service, he found himself increasingly enjoying the people and community. He decided to begin lending a helping hand to the then owners of Cigars in the Pass by becoming a part-time employee at the shop. He soon found himself fully dedicated to the profession as he started working full-time.
On May 26, 2020, Williams purchased Cigars in the Pass from its previous owners. In only four years, he had transitioned from customer to part-time employee, to full-time employee, to owner of Pass Christian’s premier cigar shop.
Cigars in the Pass welcomes visitors with its charming exterior, where the flags of each military service branch proudly adorn the building. The front yard and patio provides patrons with a cozy fire-pit and ample seating, creating a warm and welcoming environment. Stepping inside, guests have plenty of tables, chairs, televisions, and even a full service bar to choose from.
“The best thing about this place is the people,” said Williams. Like the Navy, the shop provides a space for customers to unwind, enjoy a cigar, and engage in friendly conversations with fellow enthusiasts.
Also noting the natural urge to mingle and chat with strangers in the shop, Williams said “when you smoke a cigar, you’re doing at least 30 minutes of just nothing other than smoking a cigar and talking to someone.”
Williams takes pride in offering a welcoming environment, especially for newcomers who may feel intimidated by cigar culture. He is always ready to lend a helping hand and share his knowledge, ensuring that everyone feels comfortable and at ease.
With a large selection of cigars and accessories, as well as 19 beers on tap, Cigars in the Pass has become a popular spot for locals in Pass Christian. The shop hosts several events throughout the year, featuring live music and good times, with the next scheduled for September 9.
Contrary to misconceptions, Williams wants people to know that cigar shops are not intimidating places. Instead, Cigars in the Pass is a gathering spot where people can relax, hang out, and enjoy good company.
This welcoming atmosphere holds a special significance for the expansive military veteran community along the Gulf Coast. Many have found camaraderie and enjoyment in the shop, especially over a fine cigar with fellow veterans.
This story was originally published July 3, 2023 at 8:00 AM.