Richard Ray “Dick” Williams

Richard Ray “Dick” Williams, 85, Nevada, passed away on Thursday, Sept. 7, at Nevada Regional Medical Center in Nevada following a lengthy illness. Richard was born July 10, 1932 in Walker, to John Henry and Jessie Alice (Tons) Williams.

Richard was raised in the Walker area and attended school there. He joined the United States Army where he served two years in Korea and then spent an additional six years in the Army Reserves. Richard worked for several years as a land surveyor in Wyoming before returning to Missouri where he was employed for a time by Hallmark Cards in Kansas City. After returning to Vernon County, Richard worked at Peerless in Ft. Scott, Kan., for over 20 years until his retirement. In addition to his other jobs, Richard also farmed and raised cattle all of his life. He was a member of the VFW in Nevada.

Survivors include two sons, Richard H. Williams and his wife Louann, Joplin; and Bruce Buckner and his wife Tina, Rich Hill; three daughters, Diana Ewing and her husband Melvin, Butler; Regina (Pudge) Butler, Nevada; Melinda Cornett and her husband, Perry, Parker, Kan.; seven grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; his twin brother, Robert C. Williams of the home; and his brother Earl Williams and his wife Marvelyn, Ft. Scott. He was preceded in death by his parents; one grandson, Michael Cornett; and several brothers and sisters.

A graveside service with Military Honors will be held at 2 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 11, at Mt. Vernon Cemetery in Walker, with the Rev. Mark Mitchell officiating. The family will receive friends from 4 to 6:00 p.m. on Sunday at Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada.

In Lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in his memory to Vernon County Cancer Relief in care of Ferry Funeral Home.