Richard Williams

(From Parker Mortuary)

Richard Lee “RL” Williams, 75, of Carl Junction, went to be with the Lord on October 1, 2014 at Freeman Hospital, surrounded by his family, following a courageous battle with cancer.

Richard was born on May 29, 1939 in Joplin to Chester Jack and Mildred Irene Williams. He married Gloria Mae Halliwill on October 12, 1956.

Richard was a truck driver for Ozark Engineering for 25 years and Original Co-Owner of Ozark Crane Services for over 10 years, until retiring. After retirement, he worked for Avis Rental Car. He was a hard working father and grandfather. He enjoyed farming, gardening, playing with his dog Teddy, watching NASCAR, spoiling Gloria-the love of his life, and supporting his grandchildren and great-grandchildren in their many activities.

Richard is survived by his wife Gloria Williams, of the home; a son, Rick Williams and wife Penny, of Carl Junction; a daughter, Karen Wilkins and husband Ted, of Carl Junction; and a son, Doug Williams and wife Diane, of Springfield, MO. He was the grandfather to 7 granddaughters, Heather Edwards and husband Tommy of Riverton, KS, Amanda Walker and husband Michael, of Carl Junction, Autumn Stogner and husband John, of Republic, MO, Ashley Tate and husband Randy, of Springfield, MO, Stefanie Wilson, of Carl Junction, Kelsey Wilson, of Carl Junction, and Kaitlin Wilson, of Carl Junction; and 2 grandsons, Derick Williams and fiancé Haleigh Sills, of Baxter Springs, KS, and Tyler Williams, of Dallas, TX. Also surviving are 8 great-grandchildren, Courtney Edwards and fiancé Clay Goodman, Logan, and Shelby Edwards, Austin and Isabelle Tate, Brenleigh Walker, Ryken Williams, and Lincoln Stogner; and one great-great-grandchild, Cale Goodman. He is also survived by his extended family, Deanie Case, Debbie and Roger Howell, Susie and Raymond Ervin, Kenny and Brandi Case, and Steve Grant.

Richard is preceded in death by his parents; sister, Patricia Cox; and life-long friend, Riley Case.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 7, 2014 at Parker Mortuary with Pastor, Dan Toney, and family friend, Mark Frerer officiating. Burial will follow at Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Monday, October 6, 2014 at Parker Mortuary.