Leo Williams, 90 year old, lifetime McIntosh County resident, died Thursday, October 14, 2010 in Fort Smith, Arkansas. He was born on Monday, August 30, 1920 in Brush Hill, Oklahoma to James and Zelma (Etchison) Williams. Leo grew up in Onapa where he received his education. While at Onapa he excelled in all sports and had a special love for basketball. Leo graduated as Valedictorian in 1938. He then attended the Chicago Cubs baseball farm camp. He came back home and began farming with his brother, Joe Roy and his Dad. On Tuesday, July 9, 1940 he married the love of his life, Lola Bacon, in Onapa. In 1942 he entered the United States Navy and served during WW II, receiving an honorable discharge in 1946. They moved back to Onapa where he continued farming. Leo had a passion for moving and building homes. He would buy a home, tear it down, and recycle everything to build a new home. He helped build the Trans Alaskan pipeline. Leo served as McIntosh County sheriff for two terms. He hosted many pie auctions while serving as sheriff that was held at the Katy Depot. Leo is responsible for moving the Katy to its present location. He "loved" his daughters, grandchildren and great grandchildren and was known as a very caring, gentle, and hard working man. Leo was a member of the First Baptist Church of Checotah. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Lola, son Kenneth, and brother Joe Roy Williams. Funeral services for Leo will be 10:30 AM Monday, October 18, 2010, at First Baptist Church of Checotah with Reverend Kelly Smith, officiating. Committal prayers, Military Honors, and Interment will follow in Greenlawn Cemetery. Military honors will be provided by the United States Navy Funeral Honor Guard.
(Muskogee Phoenix)