Mary Louise Williams

It is with crushing sadness that we share the passing of Mary Louise Williams, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She was a friend to all and always had a smile and kind words for others.

Mary Lou left this mortal world on the morning of September 8, 2026. She passed on to live in glory unafraid and on her own terms. She was 89 when her story ended. Mary Lou built a life full of faith, family and service. She had lived in Salado, Texas for the last 30 years.

Mary Louise Brown was born in Williston, North Dakota on January 9, 1937. It was a most frigid winter season and she had to be brought home to the farm in a horse drawn sleigh.

Mary grew up on the family farm with her mother Norma, her father Raymond, and her sister Peggy. Mary Lou attended Williston schools until she graduated and left North Dakota to pursue her studies at Colorado Women’s College.

In high school she met the love of her life, ROTC Cadet Gene Williams. After Mary graduated from college she married Gene and followed him to Fargo; where he was finishing his studies while playing basketball for NDSU.

Once Gene was commissioned into the US Army Mary Lou’s life experience expanded greatly. Mary Lou accompanied Gene on every duty station transfer, except for a few trips to Vietnam. I’m sure growing up she never thought she would live in Europe for 15 years. Mary thrived at every duty station. She was always willing to volunteer for projects that would directly benefit soldiers and their families.

Mary Lou was also a highly skilled and dedicated employee; having held several positions in government, education and nonprofit entities.

Mary loved to travel and explore new places; she had traveled to all 50 states and over 40 different countries.

Above all else, Mary was a dedicated mother. Her parenting philosophy was a mix of tenderness and strength.

Another of Mary Lou’s passion was cooking. She was fearless in the kitchen. There wasn’t a recipe or cooking technique that intimidated her.

Mary was also a wizard with a sewing machine. She came from a long line of skilled dressmakers. Mary Lou often designed and made her own gowns to wear to formal events.

Mary Lou’s passing has left an enormous void in our lives. She was the gravity that held our family together. Fortunately, she was also a fantastic teacher and prepared us to be as successful in life.

Mary Lou was proceeded in death by her loving husband Col. Winifred Gene Williams (ret), her father Raymond Brown, and her mother Norma Brown.

Mary Lou is survived by her two sons Paul (wife Jo) and Marc (wife Julie) two grandsons Matthew and Christopher (wife Kristin & daughter Cora). Her sister Peggy (husband Gene), a brother in law Richard Elkins and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

Visitation is scheduled for Monday, September 21, 2026 from 5:00 to 7:00 at Crawford-Bowers funeral home in Killeen. A celebration of life will be held on Tuesday, September 22, 2026 at 11:30 AM at Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home in Killeen followed by a committal service at 1:00 PM at the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Killeen, Texas.