Ralph Barton Williams

Ralph Barton Williams, Sr., passed away on Tuesday, February 25th, 2020, at the age of 88.  Born to Earle D. and Nelle Leola (née Barton) Williams in Pontiac, Michigan, on June 1st, 1931, he completed his education at Phillips Exeter Academy (1949) in New Hampshire and Rice University (1953) in Houston, Texas.  Subsequently, he served in the U.S. Army from 1954 to 1956, which took him to Yuma, Arizona, where he settled for the remainder of his life excepting a few years in Phoenix, Arizona, and Ottumwa, Iowa

Throughout his life he lived his faith in many organizations, including the Christian Businessmen Association, Gideons International, and the Yuma Prayer Breakfast.  He served as a deacon of First Baptist Church for many years, was a former board member of Saguaro Foundation, and served a long-time as a member of the board of Crossroads Mission.  He was also a proud member of Toastmasters International, a writer of poetry, and an avid racquetball player for many years. Additionally, he loved his work as a Certified Public Accountant, through which he helped his communities from 1959 until he passed away.

While in high school, he discovered a passion for genealogy, which he continued to explore for the rest of his life.  Through this exploration, he was able to shed light on much of the family’s history and even connect with many relatives in several countries.  He enjoyed keeping in touch with all these—in addition to his other family and friends—through calls, visits, and yearly letters.

In 1955 he married Edna Earl Parks, and they had 3 children: Linell, Laurice, and Barton.  After Edna’s passing in 1995, he married Mary Lea Caudle Vockrodt, who has a son Jeff and daughter Jeannie.  He is survived by Mary, all 5 children, and their 9 grandchildren. He is also survived by his younger sister Lesta and numerous nieces and nephews.  In addition to Edna, Ralph is preceded in death by his grandson Keith and his younger brothers Earle, Jr., and Lewis.

The funeral service will be held at 2 P.M. on Saturday, March 7th, at Morningside Church: 2900 S. 8th Ave., Yuma, AZ 85364.  Flowers may be sent to that address as well.

Memorial donations may be sent to his beloved Crossroads Mission at P.O. Box 1161, Yuma, AZ 85366

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