Bill Williams

Bill Williams, 87, passed away February 16 at his home in Patterson, after a life richly lived and deeply loved. He shared countless adventures traveling with his wife, Mortina, and treasured every moment spent outdoors. An avid hunter, Bill found peace and purpose in the beauty of nature.

Bill was born in Clayton, Missouri, on September 17, 1938, the son of John W. Williams, Sr. and Hilda Sue (Doxey) Williams. He proudly served in the United States Marine Corps for three years and was honorably discharged as a Corporal on September 2, 1960. He later earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Regis College and retired from US West Communications.

A man of courage and adventure, Bill was a charter member of the St. Louis Parachute Club and lived boldly in the skies as well as on the ground. In 1976, he made history as the only skydiver to carry the American flag during the Piedmont Air Show — a moment that reflected both his patriotism and adventurous spirit.  While a dedicated member of the Parachute Club, Bill pursued his passion for aviation and proudly earned his pilot’s license, embracing the skies with the same adventurous spirit that defined his life.  

While living in Colorado, Bill became a master falconer, dedicating himself to the ancient art of falconry. He flew many magnificent birds of prey, including a red-tailed hawk, prairie falcon, and Harris’s hawk. His connection to the natural world was not just a pastime, but a true calling.

Bill also had a deep love of trivia and a lifelong curiosity about the world around him. He was always eager to learn something new and took pride in researching any topic that caught his interest. His knowledge, quick wit, and thoughtful conversations will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Some of Bill’s happiest years were spent raising Missouri Fox Trotters and being part of the Wayne County Saddle Club community he loved so much. Horses weren’t just something he did — they were part of who he was. He took great pride in caring for his Foxtrotters and found real peace in the rhythm of a good ride. The Saddle Club was especially meaningful to him, as it carried a family legacy. His dad first became a member in 1954, and forty years later, in 1994, he proudly followed in his footsteps. Continuing that tradition meant the world to him. The friendships formed at the barn, the stories shared after long rides, and the simple joy of being in the saddle are memories that will live on in all who rode beside him

Preceding him in death are his parents, John and Hilda Williams, Sr.; his sister, Donna McCorkell and her husband, Al; his brothers-in-law, Don Henson, Butch Jerome, Bob Workman; and his nephew, Dennis McCorkell.

Bill was united in marriage to Mortina Jerome on June 25, 1983, in Greeley, Colorado. Together they built a life filled with love and adventure and were long-time residents of Patterson, MO.

Survivors include his beloved wife of 42 years, Mortina Williams of the home; his daughter, Cathy Niewoehner and her husband, Gene, of Festus, Missouri; his sister, Linda Henson of Palm Coast, Florida; and two grandchildren, Melyn Niewoehner and Reanne Niewoehner.

He is also survived by his sisters-in-law Dolores Street of St. Louis, MO; Karen (Rocky) Ottinger of Greeneville, TN; Judy Workman of Berthoud, CO; Sherry Jerome of Eureka, IL.

He is also survived by his nieces and nephews: Don Wayne (Teresa) Henson of Palm Coast, Florida; Kevin Henson of Palm Coast, Florida; Keith (Pat) McCorkell of St. Louis; Lisa (Tony) Berardino of St. Louis; Donna Sue Wilkerson of St. Louis; Jason Haas of Windsor, Colorado; Jennifer (Jake) Ottinger of Greeneville, Tennessee; Cindy (John) Kauffmann of Hillsboro, Missouri; and Nikki (Matt) Lueddecke of Germantown Hills, Illinois, along with many other family members and dear friends.

Bill will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, unwavering curiosity, deep love for his family, and the quiet strength with which he lived his life. His legacy of courage, knowledge, and devotion will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Memorial Services were held at graveside Saturday, February 28, 2026 with Bro. Branden Winner officiating. Military Honors were given by the United States Marine Corp and the Piedmont American Legion Post #281. Interment was in the Rowland Woods Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Honor Flight Network through their website in honor of Bill’s service and patriotism.