Ryan August Williams

WASHINGTON ~ Ryan August Williams, 44, of Washington, passed away at 2:27 p.m. Wednesday, February 5, 2025 at UI Health University of Illinois Hospital and Health Sciences in Chicago, while awaiting a transplant from the Walter Payton Liver Center.

Born July 19, 1980 in Pekin to Mark Williams and Debe (Henderson) Milburn, he married Heather Sweet, his high school sweetheart, on April 12, 2003 in East Peoria. She survives.

Also surviving are his mother; two children, Avery Elizabeth Williams and Sadie Grace Williams; four siblings, Hayley Milburn (Corey Phelps), Taylor Williams, Kenny Zimmerman, and Hayden Williams; many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews and his two testosterone dogs, Ditka and Staley.

He was preceded in death by his father; his stepfather, Guy “Bo” Milburn; one brother, Chad Williams; maternal grandparents, Geraldine Henderson and Bob Huckabee; paternal grandparents, Richard and Jeanette Williams; his uncle, David Henderson and childhood friend, Michael Knuppel.

Ryan worked at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria for 20 years and at Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing.

He obtained his undergraduate degree from Knox College in Galesburg and Master of Business Administration degree from University of Illinois Springfield.

Ryan was an avid Chicago Bears fan and loved playing fantasy football. He enjoyed listening to music and attending concerts, playing video games, watching movies, cooking, golfing, fishing and reading, especially novels by Stephen King.

In his youth, he was an accomplished Pekin athlete. After proving his skills in Pekin JFL, he earned a spot on the varsity football team his freshman year of high school graduating in 1998. He then went on to continue his football career at Knox College, graduating in 2002.

Ryan was dedicated to being the best husband and father and he loved his two daughters very much. He was a doting grandson to his grandmother that he greatly loved. His many friends were a big part of his life, and he loved them all like family.

A memorial service and celebration of Ryan’s life will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, February 16, 2025 at Connect Church, 1750 Washington Road, Washington, Illinois 61571. Pastor Dave Jane will officiate. Cremation has been accorded by Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin.

Memorial contributions may be given online at https://mealtrain.com/mvydv6 to help the family with medical, funeral, and educational expenses.

To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com