William Charles “Bill” Williams, 82, of Austin, Arkansas, passed away on October 9, 2025. Born on January 24, 1943, Bill was a loving husband, devoted father, and beloved grandfather — but most importantly, a faithful follower of Jesus.
Bill was preceded in death by his mother, Ida Ruth Overton; father, Glenn Orin Williams; stepfather, Thomas Luther Overton; brothers, Milo Eugene Williams and Roy Albert Williams; and sister-in-law, Brenda Williams.
He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Pat Williams; his son and daughter-in-law, Glenn and Tonya Williams; and his daughter and son-in-law, Deb and Brian Bostic. He was a proud grandfather to Allie and Stewart Beckham; Tori Williams, Justin Williams, Christian and Johnathan Kacperski; Briana and Austin Beasley; and great-grandfather to Lucas, Jenise, and Lilly Beckham; Griffin and Grayson Kacperski; and Baylor Beasley.
Bill proudly served his country in the United States Navy from June 1, 1960, to June 19, 1967, achieving the rating of Aviation Electrician’s Mate Fifth Class (AE5). During a peace cruise aboard the USS Midway, he earned his GED. He was a Vietnam Veteran, and his service shaped a lifetime of discipline, humility, and gratitude.
After the Navy, Bill built a long and successful career with Southwestern Bell, where he retired as a First Line Supervisor. Faith was the cornerstone of his life. Since 1989, he had been a proud member of Briarwood Baptist Church, serving faithfully as a deacon. That same year he joined Gideons International, where he remained active for decades, serving as president for three years and vice president for two.
At home, Bill loved woodworking, piddling on the tractor, mowing his yard, traveling, and — most of all — spending time with his family. He was known for asking what was for dessert before the meal had even begun and for summing up life’s pace with his trademark line: “I’m just mowing and goin.”
He will be remembered for his faith in Jesus, his unconditional love for his family, and his stories and silly songs that brought laughter to every room.
Memorial Service: A celebration of Bill’s life will be held at Briarwood Baptist Church on Saturday, October 25th, 2025, at 3:00 PM.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Gideons International for the purchase of Bibles, in honor of Bill’s enduring legacy of spreading the word of God. Please visit https://www.sendtheword.org/ to donate in Bill’s memory.
Arrangements by A Natural State Funeral Service 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas 72076. 501-982-3400. Online guestbook available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com