William Jesse Williams

William “Bill” Jesse Williams left this world on October 3, 2016. He was 88 years old. Born January 2, 1928 in Excelsior Springs, MO, Bill was one of five children born to Rudy and Ethel (O’Dell) Williams. After serving in the Navy, Bill returned to his hometown of Excelsior. He held a number of jobs before beginning a career in the electrical power industry, eventually becoming a journeyman lineman supervising a crew with Union Electric (now Ameren). He married Bettie Frances Stockwell and had four children. After Bettie passed away in 1960, Bill married Shari (Bruce) Burnine. That union added a step-daughter and another son to the Williams family, which eventually made their home in Liberty. Retiring from UE in 1988, Bill spent retirement with Shari taking in his favorite pursuits. He could often be found tending his garden or enjoying the outdoors. Always an enthusiast for a good deal, Bill and Shari took in many auctions and collected many things, including knives and decoys. A good day for Bill was sitting in a chair on the lawn in the breeze, chewing on a cigar and getting into a good argument – often being contrary for its own sake. Bill is preceded in death by his first wife, Bettie, his second son, Bruce Frances, and his siblings. Bill is survived by his wife of 54 years, Shari; his sons William “Billy” J., II, (wife Betty), Brian (wife Brenda), both of Excelsior Springs, and Keith (wife Stefany) of Platte City, as well as his daughter Barbara Schuette of Excelsior Springs, his step-daughter Kandi Daulton (husband Daniel) of The Woodlands, TX, and Bruce’s wife, Kenna Williams, of Excelsior Springs. Bill is also survived by 10 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren (more on the way) and 2 great-great-grandchildren. Love and memories of Bill will be carried forth by them all. In addition to family are the countless friends that Bill made throughout his life, many with whom he is now playing dominoes. The family requests donations in Bill’s memory to be made to Ducks Unlimited (www.ducks.org) in lieu of flowers or other remembrances. Memories of Bill may be shared at www.Legacy.com.