Mr. Richard F. Williams, 78, of Clayville, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at St. Joseph Hospital in Syracuse with his loving family by his side.

     Richard was born in Utica, on November 26, 1946, the son of Sim and Margaret (Mettey) Williams. He was raised and educated in Sauquoit and was a graduate of Sauquoit High School. Richard proudly served in the US Air Force during the Vietnam War. He later honorably served in the US Army during Desert Storm as well as the 107th military police. On June 25, 1971, Richard was united in marriage with Gail Pierson at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Utica. Gail passed away in 2019. Richard dedicated 31 years, serving the people of Oneida County as a deputy Sherriff with the Oneida County Sherriff’s Office, retiring in 2009. He was a member and Senior Vice Commander of VFW Malsan Jones Post 7393 in NY Miils, a member of American Legion Post 1376 in New Hartford, Elks Lodge # 33 in Utica, Knight of Columbus council 189 and its 4th degree assembly, and the Ancient Order of Hibernians. He was also a 60-year member of the Clayville Volunteer Fire Department, the Vietnam Veterans of America chapter 944 and a parishioner of St. Patrick-St. Anthony Parish Church in Chadwicks, NY.

     Mr. Williams is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Becky and Heath Brockwell of Atlantic Beach, FL; son and daughter-in-law, Sim and Melissa Williams of Utica; eight cherished grandchildren, Nicholas (Nicole) Bernard, Olivia Bernard, Bella Bernard, McKenzie Keator, Samantha Williams, Niko Grossi, Noelle Hillage and Natalie (Nick) Szalkowski; one  adored great grandson, Parker Bernard; one brother and sister-in-law, Frederick and Margaret Williams of New Hartford; his companion, Connie Fulton who diligently cared for Richard in his time of need and four dear friends, Patrick Anson, Lester Conklin, Timothy Leary and Francis Zakris as well as several nieces and nephews.

     Visitation for family and friends is Tuesday, August 26, 2025, from 4:00-7:00 pm at the Heintz Funeral Home, 408 Herkimer Rd., N. Utica, followed by service at 7:00 pm at the conclusion of visitation. He will be laid to rest in Forest Hill Cemetery in Utica. Those wishing to donate in Richard’s memory, please consider VFW Malsan Jones Post 7393, 21 Garden St., New York Mills, NY 13417. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.