Welcome to our new web site!
To give our readers a chance to experience all that our new website has to offer, we have made all content freely avaiable, through October 1, 2018.
During this time, print and digital subscribers will not need to log in to view our stories or e-editions.
Jesse M. Williams, of Fayette, Missouri, was born on October 11, 1952, in Fayette, to Jesse Cowans and Louis V. Williams. He peacefully departed this life on November 11, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.
Jesse was a proud graduate of Fayette High School and spent his career working in construction, where he was known for his dedication, hard work, and craftsmanship.
A man of many passions, Jesse found joy in the simple things that brought people together—attending football games in any state, fishing, family vacations, barbeques, gardening, and DJ’ing at gatherings as the life of the party. Above all, his greatest pride and happiness came from his role as “Paw-Paw” to his beloved grandchildren, whom he adored deeply.
Jesse will be remembered for his kindness, humor, generosity, and unwavering love for his family and friends. His presence brought warmth and laughter wherever he went.
He leaves to cherish his memory his mother Louis V. Williams; sons Marvin Williams (Phyllis), Jesse Williams II, Jesse Williams III, Charles Harris, Darren Harris, Ryan Booze, and Derric Smith; daughter Joneesha Bynum; brothers Edward L. Williams and James H. Williams; sisters Shirley Williams, Virginia Williams-Bragg, Brenda Beard, Wanda Cowan, Rudy White, and Sara Holt; and a host of grandchildren—Major, Monet, Marquis, Jesse IV, Destiny, Rashaan, Raejean, Paxton, Korbin, Kylie, Jaelynne, Adelynne, Brooklynne, Rider, Nora, Harrison, and Charlie—along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his father Jesse Cowans, sister Ethelene Williams, granddaughter Aiyanna Williams, uncles Ira, William, George, and Romie Williams, and aunt Mable Boone.
A visitation will be held on Friday, November 21, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Faith Family Church in Fayette, Missouri, followed by a funeral service at 11 a.m. at the same location. Burial will follow at Fayette City Cemetery.
Jesse’s life was one of love, laughter, and legacy. Though he will be deeply missed, his spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.millardfamilychapels.com
