Russell Williams Sr

A ceremony celebrating the life of Mr. Russell “Russ” Williams will be held on Friday December 6, 2024, at Wholly Ground Church Walker, visitation will begin at 8:00 am until time of service at 9:30 am, with Fr. Mat Dunn officiating. Graveside service will be 11:00 am with Military Honors at Louisiana National Cemetery.

Mr. Russell A. Williams, Sr. - passed away on Nov. 25, 2024, at age 77. Survived by his wife, Carla Williams, and their children, Catherine Williams, Andrea Penalber (nee Williams) and spouse Calley Penalber, and Russell A. Williams, Jr. and spouse Angelle Hardesty. Also survived by his grandsons, Colby Penalber and Kade Penalber. He was proceeded in death by his parents, Rash B. Williams and Cecile Williams. 

He flew helicopters in the US Army and was a decorated Vietnam veteran. He held the rank of Chief Warrant Officer Two. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for drawing enemy fire away from beleaguered ground troops and then flying in between enemy fire and the medical evacuation helicopter to screen it while it was evacuating the remaining casualties. He also received the Award of the Air Medal for actively participating in more than 25 aerial missions over hostile territory in support of counterinsurgency operations and the Bronze Star for meritorious achievement in ground operations against hostile forces. 

He later flew helicopters bringing workers & supplies to offshore rigs for Air Logistics and flew the helicopter for the Ascension Parish Sherrif's office as a reserve deputy. 

In Lieu of Flowers, memorial gifts are preferred to be used by the family to honor Russ’s life and memory.