Michael Joseph Williams

With heavy hearts but joyous memories, we announce the passing of Michael Joseph Williams, who departed this life on May 7, 2025, at the age of 81. Born on January 16, 1944, in Panama City, Panama, Michael embraced life with enthusiasm, humor, and a spirit that touched all who knew him

The family will receive guest on Monday evening, May 12, 2025, at Schooler Funeral Home, 4100 South Georgia from 5:30 PM until 7:00 PM. The funeral service will be Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at Central Baptist Church, 1608 SW 58th at 10:30 AM. Interment will be at Memory Gardens Cemetery.

Michael was the son of William Edward and Margaret McClarty Williams. He graduated Balboa High School in Panama and proudly enlisted in the U.S. Navy, launching a remarkable career that spanned 24 years. His time as the chief mechanic for the Blue Angels allowed him to travel and witness the world through a lens few experience, igniting a lifelong passion for aviation. After transitioning to Amarillo, Michael continued to pursue his love for flight through various airline companies before dedicating his final working years to Bell Helicopter, where he retired in 2014. In Amarillo, Michael found love in, Donna Ray, whom he married on March 29, 1995. Their adventure together blossomed into a beautiful partnership over the next thirty-one years, filled with laughter, love, and fantastic voyages, including memorable cruises to Hawaii and Panama. A man of many passions, Michael adored golfing and took immense pride in his landscape and gardening skills, often cultivating the most beautiful yards in the neighborhood. He cherished the beauty of the outdoors and found solace and inspiration in nature. Above all, Michael had a profound faith and a deep love for the Lord. Michael’s gentle spirit was complemented by his easy-going nature; his playful teasing brought joy to his family and friends. Although his health declined in recent years, leading to his move to the VA Nursing Home nearly a decade ago, he formed close, affectionate relationships with the staff who became like family to him.

He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Gary, Roger, and Billie Williams; and a sister Margaret “Maggie” Williams.

Michael is survived by his wife, Donna; two daughters, Michelle Hodgson and Jackie Williams both of New Jersey; two step-children, Summer Dixon Miller and her husband David of Amarillo and Gabriel Dixon of Guymon; a sister, Kathy Williams of Florida; and three grandchildren, Jordan Dixon, Conner Reams and Reagan Trissler.