Stanley M. Williams

Bayfield resident Stanley Michael Williams died Saturday, June 22, 2013, at Mercy Regional Medical Center. He was 63. The cause of death was complications from exposure to Agent Orange.

Known as "Stan," he was born to John L. and Dorothy (Nolan) Williams on Nov. 17, 1949, in Monroe, La.

After serving as a soldier in the Army during the Vietnam War, Mr. Williams ultimately became a casualty of that service to his country, his family said.

In 1990, he married Robin Robbins in Colorado Springs. The couple moved to Bayfield in 1995.

He was the former owner of Denton Signs in Durango.

Mr. Williams was a member of the Bayfield First Baptist Church.

In addition to being a lifetime member of Sertoma, an organization in Colorado Springs that works with people dealing with hearing loss, Mr. Williams volunteered with Cadence Therapeutic Riding Program in Durango and with a La Plata County organization that reviewed children's living situations for safety.

He enjoyed playing tennis when his health allowed.

"During his final days, he was greatly comforted by this simple prayer, 'God is always good, and I am always loved,'" his family said.

Mr. Williams is survived by his wife of 23 years, Robin Williams of Bayfield; father, John L. Williams of Monroe; sisters Beryl W. Foster of Byers and Cheryl W. Newton of Monroe, La.; and brother, John Bearden, of Valrico, Fla.

A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, June 26, 2013, at First Baptist Church, 560 Buck Highway (County Road 521) in Bayfield. The Rev. Randy Ash will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Mr. Williams' name at First National Bank of Durango to help defer medical expenses; or a donation may be made to a charity of one's choice.