Garford Dean Williams

Garford Dean Williams, also known as “Strawberry”, 78, of Herrin, passed away Saturday, September 21, 2024, at Stonebridge Nursing Home in Benton.

Graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, October 5, 2024, at Hillcrest Cemetery in Carterville, with the Rev. Ralph Brandon officiating. Military rites will be accorded by the Carterville American Legion Post, Herrin V.F.W. and American Legion Post, and the Marine 3rd Battalion 23rd Marine Regiment Inspector Staff.

Dean was born December 3, 1945, in Carterville, to Kenneth K. and Mima (Hicks) Williams. He was raised in Sesser and graduated high school from Sesser-Valier High.

He joined the United States Marine Corps and honorably served our country for four years.

Dean was first united in marriage to Anita Diane Hock of Cambria. Together they had three children. They divorced in 1982, and she preceded him in death in 2017. He later married Priscilla Diane Seagle-Williams, they also divorced in 2006.

He spent most of his life working at Old Ben #24 Coal Mines.

Dean is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Dina (James) Shadowens; nephew, Terry Williams; 3 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; former stepson, Danny Long; former stepdaughter, Penny (Long) Boness; 6 step-grandchildren; and 11 step great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Wyvan and Kenny Williams; sister, Wanda (Williams) Bearden; sons, Derek and David Williams; nephew, Kevin Williams; nieces, Brenda Williams and Myra Faye (Williams) Whitecotton.

During his lifetime, Dean loved to camp, fish, and visit with friends. He will be sadly missed by those he left behind.

Riggin-Pillatsch & Burke Funeral Home in Carterville is in charge of arrangements.

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