Leslie Williams Obituary

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Leslie Williams on February 19, 2025, at the age of 96. Born on August 21, 1928, on a homestead south of Quinn, South Dakota to Lee and Doris Williams. He was the youngest of five boys- Verl, Bud, Lyle, and Gene. Leslie’s life was one of perseverance, faith, and a deep love for his family and the land he cherished.

Leslie's early years were marked by hardship, but he faced every challenge with determination. Beginning in fourth grade, he attended boarding school, and he worked tirelessly to help support himself. To afford new clothes, he cleaned businesses, a testament to his strong work ethic. These experiences shaped the man he became—resilient, self-reliant, and dedicated to providing a better life for his own family.

On January 8, 1950, Leslie married Catherine Gregg, and together they built a life filled with love, faith, and family. Their 75 years of marriage were marked by mutual respect and an unwavering commitment to one another. Catherine was Leslie’s closest companion, and their shared journey created a strong foundation of love and devotion.

For more than 50 years, Leslie and Catherine worked side by side farming, ranching, raising cattle, and hogs. He worked tirelessly, never complaining, always doing whatever was needed. Leslie also completed barber school, and was a barber in surrounding towns, and their home as well. His devotion to his family, the ranch, and the community was evident in everything he did. Leslie wanted his family to love the Lord and to hold family above all else, knowing how to work hard, be honest, caring, respectful, and to appreciate what they had.

In their golden years, Leslie and Catherine traveled all over the country, on bus trips they thoroughly enjoyed. After moving to Lincoln, Ne, Leslie continued working at Randy’s business well into his 90’s, where he enjoyed visiting with the regulars that came in.

Leslie is survived by his loving wife, Catherine, and their children: Marcia Williams, Gary (Deb) Williams, Gwen (Michael) Hamilton, and Randy (Mary) Williams. He also leaves behind eleven grandchildren, and fifteen great grandchildren.

Visitation will be held one hour prior to the funeral service at the church.

Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, February 25, at the United Methodist Church in Wall with Pastor Justin Trent officiating.

Interment will follow at the Wall Cemetery.

Condolences can be sent to: 1120 Silver Ridge Road #18 Lincoln, Ne 68510.

Guest Book

Thinking of the Williams family during your time of loss.
~ Dwight and Melanie Flatt Chandler, AZ (3/16/2025)

Les became a good friend of my family when he had a barber shop in my parents liquor store in Interior. He was there during all my growing up years and I am sure he witnessed some teen-age antics of mine! Sending love and sympathy to all of Les's family.
~ Ron & Marilyn Gartner Casa Grande AZ (2/20/2025)

Kay and family - We are sending our thoughts and prayers to all of you. Les was a kind and personable man. He will be missed.
~ Clayton & Linda Baysinger Rapid City (3/2/2025)

Sorry to hear of Les's passing. He was truly a South Dakota gentleman. Had my hair cut many a years at his Interior shop. He will be missed.
~ Tim & Peggy Lester Austin, TX (2/24/2025)

So sorry to hear of the passing of Les. Thoughts are with you all.
~ Tom Clark Pahoa, Hawaii (2/27/2025)

South Dakota
~ Don and Carol (Larsen) Bradeen Rapid City (2/25/2025)

Les & Kay were longtime family friends. I used to go to their place and they would let me ride horses and go rock hunting - we had so much fun!
I'm so sorry for your loss
~ Brenda (Hynes) Ortman Loudon, TN (2/22/2025)

Gwen, sorry to hear about your Dad.
~ Bruce Kjerstad SHERIDAN (2/24/2025)