Hugh Williams

(From Parker-Millard Funeral Service)

Albert Hugh Williams, Columbia, Missouri passed away on July 26, 2024. He was 88 years old. Born August 14, 1935, to Thelma Belle (Wilburn) and Hugh James Williams. Hugh was married to Martha Sue (Hudson) for 63 years. 

He is survived by Sue, their daughter Crystal Williams (married to Richard Speidel), Grandson Will Speidel, son Hugh L. Williams, and sister Sharon (Bill) Daly. 

Hugh was predeceased by two brothers, James (Glenda) Williams and Norman (Janet) Williams, and one sister, Jane (Jerry) Cooper.

Hugh graduated from Audrain County Community R-VI in 1955. After his father's untimely death while in high school, Hugh took over the family farm near Benton City, MO and also drove trucks to support the family.

Hugh's passion was farming. He worked as a farmer his entire life, owning farms near Thompson, MO, Sturgeon, MO, and Lamar, MO. He got his realtor's license later in life, and Hugh and Sue formed a real estate company called Williams Real Estate, selling and managing farms throughout Missouri.

Hugh was a lifelong Democrat and ran twice for Audrain County Missouri Commissioner. Hugh and Sue helped co-found the Missouri chapter of American Agriculture Movement, Inc., an organization designed to advocate for farmers during the American farm crisis of the 1980s. Hugh spent time in Washington, DC, and Jefferson City, testifying and working on behalf of family farmers.

Hugh donated his body to the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Medicine. Per his wishes, no funeral is planned. There will be a public Gift of Body Ceremony held in August 2025 at the University of Missouri-Columbia.

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made to the organization of the donor's choice.
Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.parkermillard.com.