Richard LaVerne Williams

Dick was born on June 23rd 1938 in Eugene, Oregon to Reeta and Elmer Williams. He was the second youngest of 7 siblings. He had five sisters and one brother. Sisters, Gloria, Gerry, Nina and Judy preceded Dick in death along with his parents. Dick is survived by siblings Don Williams and Betty Klopp, along with his longtime partner Douglas Evenson, many nieces, nephews and close friends.

After graduating from high school in Springfield, Oregon he went on to the Yale Language School where he graduated with a very high proficiency in the Mandarin Chinese language. He spent the next 4 years in the United States Air Force stationed in Taiwan. After completing his tour with the Air Force he remained in Taiwan for approximately 6 more years, working in a civilian position with the United States government.

After returning to the U.S., Dick moved to Chicago where he was employed by American Express in their Travelers Cheques Division. He was later transferred to their Southeastern head-quarters in Atlanta to head up the rollout of a newly designed traveler’s check. After the rollout was completed he was offered a promotion to their office in Newark, NJ, which he turned down. He remained in Atlanta and was subsequently hired by Americo Manufacturing where he worked in various capacities, with the latest being Vice President of International Sales. He was with Americo until his retirement.

Dick was an avid traveler, both for business and pleasure. There was nothing he enjoyed more than seeing new places and interacting with the local residents.

He never met a stranger and had a special gift of engaging everyone he met in sincere dialog. Many of these strangers became lifelong friends.

Dick always had a very positive attitude that helped him throughout his entire life. He will be greatly missed by everyone who knew and loved him.

A Memorial Service will be held Friday, November 22, 2019 at 10:00 am at the Woodstock Funeral Home.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers please make a contribution to your favorite charity.