Harry Don Williams

Pastor Harry Don Williams, age 73, of Columbia, Missouri, was peacefully called home by his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, August 13, 2024. Born in Mexico, Missouri, on September 23, 1950, to the late Orion Williams and Lydia Kelly Williams, Harry lived a life rich in faith, service, and love.
A 1969 graduate of Centralia High School, Harry was active in high school sports, demonstrating early on the determination and teamwork that would define his life. Harry proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps from May 1969 to May 1971, when he was discharged honorably. He pursued higher education with a steadfast commitment to both spiritual and intellectual growth, attending Western Baptist Bible College in Kansas City, Missouri, and later earning his Juris Doctorate from the University of Missouri in 1985. His passion for knowledge was evident not only in his professional life but also in his personal interests. Harry was an avid fan of westerns and science fiction, a history buff, and a word game enthusiast. He was also a proud member of the Black Panther Party, reflecting his lifelong dedication to justice and equality.
On October 25, 1997, Harry married the love of his life, Verl. Together, they built a life full of adventure, traveling extensively and cherishing the time spent with their children, grandchildren and friends on family trips. Cruising was their favorite. Their marriage was a testament to love, partnership, and shared faith.
Harry's deep faith began at Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church which set the foundation of his spiritual journey. In 1998, he answered the call to serve as the pastor of Sugar Grove Missionary Baptist Church, where he led his congregation with humility and devotion. He also served as the moderator for the Mt. Carmel District, further demonstrating his commitment to his faith and community.
Professionally, Harry worked as an attorney for the State of Missouri for nearly thirty years before realizing his dream of opening his own private practice, Williams Law Firm, in 2012. Through this venture, he found the freedom to focus on pro bono work, exemplifying his generous spirit and unwavering commitment to helping those in need.
Above all, Harry was a devoted husband, father, uncle, brother, and friend. His loyalty, humility, and faithfulness touched the lives of all who knew him. He embraced many as his own children and was loved by a vast extended family.
Harry leaves behind his beloved wife, Verl Williams, and his cherished children: Harry Don Williams Jr., Andre Walton, Chris Walton, Mykene Powell, Melissa Williams-Pulley (and her husband Courtney), Asya Powell, Ava Smith Powell, and Aquiera Smith. He is also survived by his sister, Shirley Deanne Williams Larkins, ten grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
Rev. Harry Williams is preceded in death by his parents, Orion and Lydia, his siblings, Orion George, Everett Eugene, Billy Joe, Mary Jeanette, Raydell Calvin, Thelma Marie Williams Robinson, Bernice Faye Williams Coleman, Carson Wayne, Ralph Edward, Edward Lee, Terry Leon, and Jerome Richard, his grandson Christopher Powell, as well as Shayla Powell.
A memorial service to honor and celebrate the life of Pastor Harry Don Williams will be held on Thursday, August 22, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church in Columbia, Missouri. The service will be followed by full military honors.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made in Harry's honor to Sugar Grove Missionary Baptist Church, 5400 E. Sugar Grove Rd., Columbia, Missouri 65201.
Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences may be left online for the family
at www.millardfamilychapels.com.