Harold Mern Jefferson Williams Jr.

April 17, 1942 – January 3, 2026

Mern Williams, age 83, passed away from a variety of medical complications at his home in North Padre Island, Corpus Christi, Texas.

Mern was a graduate of Elderton Joint High School, Elderton PA, class of 1960. Following graduation and marriage to Barbara Smay in September 1962, he proudly served his country in the United States Army, dedicating six years of service and acquiring the rank of Staff Sergeant (E-6). Upon departing the Army, Mern studied Electrical Engineering and received a Bachelor of Science degree in 1968 from University of Texas-El Paso.

He went on to build a successful career with El Paso Energy Company, where he worked as a Director of Communications Department until his retirement. Following his retirement in 2000, he and his wife relocated to North Padre Island where they enjoyed a well-earned and active retirement boating abroad September Song as an active member of the Padre Island Yacht Club since 2001. Also, in 2009, they began RVing and traveled all over the United States and Canada for many years.

As an avid outdoorsman, Mern found great joy in fishing, hunting, archery, and biking. He treasured returning to Pennsylvania to spend time with his family, a place that always held a special place in his heart. He was known for his thirst for knowledge and his love of reading, interest that stayed with him throughout his life.

Mern is survived by his devoted wife of 63 years, Barbara (Smay) Williams, siblings Phyllis Vallies, James, Michael and Randall Williams, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Mern Sr. and Phyllis Williams, siblings Barbara Brewer, Fred Williams, and Betty Delissio.

Mern will be remembered for his dedication to family, service to his country, love of American and world history, and appreciation for the outdoors. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched.