Gary Lee Williams

Gary Lee Williams, 85, of Papillion, Nebraska, passed away peacefully on December 2, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bert and Gertrude Williams (Dodds), brothers Herb, Stewart, Wayne, and Robert and sisters Betty and June.

Gary is survived by his devoted wife, Karol Jean “Jeannie” Williams; children Deborah Williams, Mike Williams (Samantha Hoffman), Angela (Steve) Everett, and James (Theresa) Williams; and his cherished grandchildren Garett (Ally) Williams, Nora Williams, Nicholas Everett, Nathan (Jade) Everett, Maddie Everett, Lauren Williams, Ava (Josh) Chipman, and Sage Williams, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Born April 21, 1940, in Wahoo, Nebraska, Gary later moved to Omaha, where he met the love of his life, Jeannie, in a storybook moment—she hopped on the handlebars of his bike, and from that day forward, their love endured for more than seven decades.

Gary attended Omaha Tech High School and Heating and Air Conditioning school, but his true calling was life on the open road as a semi-truck driver—a career he embraced wholeheartedly.

A passionate sports and outdoor enthusiast, Gary could often be found on the softball fields of La Vista, at bowling alleys, local golf courses, or out fishing and hunting. Like many Nebraskans, he loyally endured countless Husker football seasons. He also loved tinkering in the garage, swapping automatic transmissions for five-speeds, and performing bodywork on cars. Above all, Gary treasured cheering on his children and grandchildren at sporting events and dance competitions.

Gary embodied hard work, kindness, loyalty, and unwavering devotion to family and friends. His occasional ornery streak only added to his charm.

In his later years, Gary faced the challenges of Parkinsonism, which limited his mobility but never his spirit. He fought with grace and found joy in every visit from family—especially his grandchildren. Gary now rests peacefully, keeping watch over Jeannie, the love of his life.