Richard C. “Reb” Williams, born August 1, 1944, peacefully passed away in his sleep on July 4, 2025, at his home in Colorado Springs, Colorado at the age of 80. He was the beloved son of Alfred Morton Williams Jr. and Roxanna Eaton Child Williams, and brother to Peter and Carol Anne, all of whom preceded him in death.
Reb married Janice Hawkins in Tennessee, and they were blessed with three children. Their daughter, Lucy sadly passed away in early childhood. It was a profound loss that deeply affected both parents. Reb is lovingly remembered by his two sons, Matthew Williams (with wife, Nicolette McCall) of Kalispell, Montana, and Marc Williams (with wife, Kerry Williams) of Buena Vista, Colorado. Matthew and Nicolette share a special bond with their cherished four-legged “children”. Reb also leaves behind three beloved grandchildren through Marc and Kerry: Joseph Behr, Rylee Williams, and Gracey Williams of Buena Vista, Colorado.
Later in life, Reb found lasting companionship with Vicki Ratterree, whom he married and they shared 35 years. Through this union, he became a cherished part of her family and is survived by two stepchildren, Shane King and Jamie King, along with Jamie’s daughter, Augustina King. All four of Reb’s children lived in their home at some time. Reb was known for his generosity and never hesitated to lend a helping hand whenever it was needed. Friends and family could always count on him, so long as his tools were returned in one piece and on time.
Reb found deep spiritual grounding and a sense of community at St. George’s Anglican Church. A devoted member, he faithfully served as a lector and took great care to ensure the church doors were open and welcoming each Sunday morning. His unwavering faith was a cornerstone of his life.
In his professional life, Reb’s sharp mind and strong work ethic shaped a long and respected career in heavy construction. After studying mechanical engineering at Northwestern University, he worked for several large contractors such as Martin K. Eby Construction and ASI General Contractors and Engineers in Buena Vista, Colorado. At ASI, he served in many roles as Fleet Manager, Project Manager, and Vice President. Later, he founded his own consulting firm, R.W. Consultants, and continued to share his knowledge and experience well into retirement.
Having called Colorado Springs home since 1989, Reb immersed himself in community life and dedicated his time to numerous civic and government organizations. He served on the El Paso County Highway Advisory Commission from 2011 to 2017, the Pike’s Peak Rural Transportation Authority Citizen Advisory Committee from 2013 to 2021, and the El Paso County Citizens Outreach Group. His unwavering commitment extended to local government committees such as the El Paso County Citizens Budget Oversight Committee and the Community Advisory Committee for the Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments. Reb’s contributions played a vital role in shaping El Paso County’s policies on budgeting, transportation and environmental quality.
The assassination of President John F. Kennedy left a lasting impression on Reb and sparked a lifelong passion for politics, marked by sharp observations and candid opinions. As a dedicated volunteer with the El Paso County Republican Party, he built strong relationships with party officers, staff, and fellow volunteers, providing leadership and forming many tight-knit friendships. During this time, Reb developed a close friendship with Rick Sanford, an especially strong bond rooted in deep brotherly love. In 2007, Reb was honored as Volunteer of the Year. He wore out the soles of many shoes while walking precincts in support of various candidates for office. Whether behind the scenes, canvassing neighborhoods, or out in the field, he gave generously of his time and talents across political, civic, and nonprofit arenas. He lived his values with conviction, loyalty, and integrity, leaving a legacy that continues to resonate throughout the community he so deeply cherished.
Reb also became a close friend and trusted ally to Kaye Sanford, who relied on their long-standing friendship during her tenure at the Space Foundation. He volunteered as her Transportation Coordinator for the annual Space Symposium, leading a dedicated team that managed airport logistics for visiting speakers. He kept everyone on their toes with his quick wit and signature use of sarcasm to lighten the mood. Thanks to Reb’s steady leadership and dependable presence, Kaye could focus confidently on her broader responsibilities, knowing transportation was in expert hands with Reb.
In his personal life, Reb found joy in hard work, outdoor adventures with his sons, watching sports, and the loyal companionship of his beloved dogs. Those who knew him best will remember his keen intelligence, steady loyalty, signature dry humor, and profound love for his family. Reb described himself as “fiercely independent, and stubborn but open-minded.” In his later years, he became increasingly concerned about societal polarization and the decline of respectful discourse, urging others to seek understanding, even amid disagreement. His legacy lies not only in the life he lived, but in the wisdom, he shared with friends and loved ones.
As per Reb’s wishes, a private scattering of his ashes will occur at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in his name can be made to the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region at hsppr.org.
May his memory be a blessing, and may the light of his legacy continue to shine through the lives he touched.