Ernest Howard Williams, 72, of Richmond passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 11, 2021, at home.

He is survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Leisa Williams, and their beloved Missy Baby. He also is survived by one brother, John Williams (Linda) of Jasper, Texas; a sister, Barbara Brewer of Wichita Falls, Texas; and another brother, Willy Williams of Wichita Falls. Other survivors include a niece, Crystal Bryant (Adam) of Sanger, Texas, and other nieces and nephews in Texas; a brother-in-law, Claude Scott Jr. of Excelsior Springs; a niece, Melissa Tylec, and greatnephews, Nathan and Shaun, of Excelsior Springs; and numerous friends and family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Art and Frances Maxine (Wright) Williams.

He lived a full life of trying to find something he loved to do. He worked in the oil fields, was an electrician, a master plumber, a tanker man, a prison guard, a retired law enforcement officer and a truck driver. He was an avid history buff and enjoyed watching History/the Discovery Channel. He loved gardening, fishing, cooking, and bantering back and forth with Sharlena Jr. and Melissa. Most of all, he loved spending time with his wife, poodles and Missy Baby.

He was a fighter, and though he beat the initial odds, cancer won in the end. Ernie was not a man that wanted any type of memorial service after his passing, but for those who knew him to just take a moment, think of him, smile and laugh.

Condolences may be mailed or left at Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.