Francis Lee Williams“Bugs”

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Francis Lee Williams“Bugs”

Wed, 08/10/2022 - 09:16
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Francis Lee Williams (“Bugs”), 90, Excelsior Springs, Missouri passed away Thursday, Aug. 4, 2022. 

Bugs was born on Aug. 7, 1931, to Francis Williams and Gladys Kerns in Richmond, MO. Bugs graduated from Excelsior Springs High School, class of 1949. He then joined the Navy, serving from 1950-1954 and visiting many ports in Japan and Korea. Bugs’ ship, USS Estes, made the ice used during the peace talks between the United States and North Korea. After the Navy, he attended Northwest Missouri State University and graduated in 1958 with a Bachelor of Science degree. 

Bugs married his best friend Donna Dennis on Dec. 31, 1960. Together they built an amazing life together. Their love story was never ending. 

He was an active member of his community. Over the years, he helped to raise thousands of dollars for the Excelsior Springs schools. He was a founding member of the Quarterback Club, a member of the Lion Club, a Lifetime Member of VFW #741, 50-year member of the Masonic Lodge A.D.A #444, and an All-American City Committee Member. He was the owner of Excelsior Pest Control. Bugs was a volunteer firefighter for the city of Excelsior Springs from 1963-1977 and was the Fire Chief in 1977. 

Bugs loved camping with friends, and they took many trips together. He was an avid reader of history, especially World War II, and a lover of music, especially big band jazz. One of his favorite pastimes later in life was to make road trips to Orrick to watch the crops grow. 

Bugs was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Donna; son, Scott Williams; and sister, Jan Adkins. 

He is survived by his daughter, Candy Teegarden (Bret); grandchildren, Amanda Williams, Damen Williams (Stephaney), Austin Teegarden (Alannah), and Dailee Teegarden (Trevor); niece Lisa Foster (Larry); four great-grandchildren, Alivia, Kasen, Kayler, and Traxten; great niece Laura Liber (Doug), great nephew Kevin Foster (Lauren), great niece Rachel Foster, and great-great nephew Hudson “Cactus Jack” Liber. 

Bugs and Donna’s Celebration of Life will be on Sept. 4, visitation from 1 to 2:30 p.m., and eulogy and storytelling at 2:30 p.m. at the Montgomery Event Venue in Excelsior Springs, MO. 

Memorial contributions may be made to the Excelsior Springs Quarterback Club in Bugs and Donna Williams honor.