Paul D Williams

Paul Douglas Williams, 74, passed away on February, 24 at his home in Naches, Washington. Paul was born on February 22, 1952, in Toppenish to Raymond and Fern Williams. He spent his childhood in Harrah and Wapato. At just 15 years old, after the passing of his father, Ray, Paul stepped up to help support his family financially -- a reflection of the responsibility and strength that would define his life.

Paul graduated from Wapato High School in 1970 and volunteered for the United States Army. Through hard work and dedication, he earned the rank of Sergeant and was stationed in Maryland and Germany. Paul was deeply proud of his service to his country.

After returning to Wapato, Paul began his career in law enforcement as a police officer, before transferring to the Union Gap Police Department and later serving as a Yakima County Sheriff's Deputy from 1981 to 2004. Even in retirement, his commitment to public service continued as he worked as a bailiff for Yakima County Superior Court. Paul was proud to serve his community at every level.

He was an active member of the Chinook Pass Lions Club from 1983 to 2007, the International Footprint Association, the Blue Knights, the Military Police Association and was a founding member of the Back Country Horsemen. His dedication to civic involvement carried into local government when he was appointed to the Naches Town Council in 2010, appointed Mayor in 2011, and elected Mayor in 2015. He served two terms as Mayor, leading the community he loved until 2023.

Whether he was in his garage building clocks and bird feeders, creating something clever out of corks, or tuning up his motorcycle for the next ride, Paul found joy in staying busy and creative. His family found his Frankenbin after he died and had a great laugh about his ingenuity and his dedication to never giving up! He had a deep love for animals, traveling, and the outdoors -- passions that brought him joy throughout his life.

Paul is survived by his wife of over 20 years, Suzi; his sons, John (Christie) and Wayne; his four granddaughters, Grace, Addison, Scarlett, and Lilah; his mother in law Rhonda Morgan; brother-in-law, Mike (Brenda) Morgan; nieces and nephews Stacy (Jay) Miranda, Bruce (Melissa) Benscoter, Lloyd (Lisa) Benscoter, Brad Morgan, Rachelle (Michael) Boyechko, Stephanie Morgan (fiancee Michael); great nieces and nephews Ayrik, Joshua and Matthew Miranda, Ryan, Justin, and Janae Benscoter, Chase, Tanner, and Taylor Benscoter, Peter and Connor Boyechko; and special family friends Diana Ferrari and Berlin. He was reunited in heaven with his brother Dennis and his parents, Ray and Fern.

Paul was a devoted husband, dad, papa, uncle, great uncle and friend. He will be greatly missed and forever held in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wags to Riches, Tunnel to Towers Foundation, or Wounded Warrior Project.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at keithandkeith.com for the Williams family.