Howard Verne Williams, 89, of Montgomery City, passed away on Friday, December 6, 2024, at his home.
Howard was born on March 13, 1935, in Bellflower to Herbert Williams and Clara (Davis) Williams. He graduated from the Montgomery County R-II High School and a few years later he enlisted in the United States Army and was honorably discharged as a veteran of the Korean War.
Howard was someone with a life full of rich experiences and a knack for storytelling. His stories were a mix of fact, exaggeration and pure imagination, which is often the hallmark of a seasoned storyteller, especially in the cowboy tradition. He was known for tales that reflected his hard work and adventurous life. In his younger years, Howard lived on ranches throughout Wyoming, Montana and Utah as a working cowboy. In the late 1980s, he moved back to Missouri and rented a room from an old friend, Gale; though he preferred sleeping outside under the maple tree. On September 21, 1988, he went on to marry that old friend, Karen Gale (Lewis) Williams, in Hermann. He worked several years as a truck driver and at the horse farm in Warrenton, but his true passion was as a saddler. Saddle making was an art, and he had an incredible talent for it. He had a workshop at his home and created many, many saddles throughout his life. Howard and Gale were founding members of the Crossroads Cowboy Church in Williamsburg in 2007. They also helped the church in construction of its current building in 2012 and remained faithful and devoted members.
Mr. Williams is survived by his loving wife, Karen Gale Williams of the home; stepson, Christopher James (Laura) Lewis of Holts Summit; grandchildren, Alex and Jacob Lewis of Holts Summit; sister, Margaret Ann Jimerson of Texas; and nephew, Charles, Jr. “Chuck” (Tracey) Jimerson.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Clara Williams; nephew, Chris Jimerson; and three brothers, David, Bill and Roger Williams.
Howard will be cremated. A “Cowboy’s Last Ride” will be held at a later date.
