Bernard C. “Butch” Williams never met a stranger—only friends he hadn’t talked to yet. Whether it was over a deck of cards, a cup of coffee, or a campfire by the water, Butch was always ready with a story, a good-natured argument, or a bit of teasing just to see you smile.
Butch was born January 29, 1950, in Mount Vernon, Ohio, to Robert Williams and Ruby Chadwick. He graduated from Fredericktown High School and spent a lifetime working with his hands and his heart. He began his career as a brick and block layer, a skilled mason who took pride in solid work. Over the years, he also drove semi-truck, worked construction, and most recently was employed by Stillion Brothers.
On April 5, 1980, Butch married the love of his life, Sharlene Pugh, and together they built a life rooted in family, hard work, and laughter.
A proud member of the Bellville American Legion #535 and Bellville AMVETS, Butch lived for the outdoors. He loved trapping, shooting, hunting raccoons and rabbits, and fishing—especially at his “secret” fishing hole or catfishing at night. He enjoyed attending gun shows, boating on Lake Erie, and special vacations at Land Between the Lakes in Kentucky. He often joked that in retirement he would sell everything and live on the water.
Butch also loved gathering with friends for card games, especially pinochle and poker, and more often than not came home with pockets full of quarters. A natural conversationalist who could talk like a politician, he enjoyed debating just for the sake of arguing and teasing others to get a rise—always in good fun.
He was a good cook, well-known for his biscuits and gravy, and a true history buff who could recall dates and facts with ease. He loved quizzing others, sharing stories, and passing along the knowledge he so happily retained. Generous, and self sacrificing, Butch would give you the shirt off his back or volunteer his time, whenever someone called Butch could be counted on to lend a helping hand.
Above all, Bernard “Butch” Williams will be remembered for his outgoing spirit, quick wit, love of the outdoors, and the way he made everyone feel like they’d known him forever.
He is survived by his wife Sharlene Williams, four children Rebecca (Chuck) Edwards, Chad (Lori) Williams, Tyler (Brent) Stillion, and Sam Williams; grandchildren Merrick Johnson, Carly (Jake) Walters, Bryce (Taylor) Stillion, Braxton Stillion, and Lola Stillion; two great grandchildren; a sister Margaret Mortimer, a brother Pete (Vanessa) Williams, and many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Butch was preceded in death by his brother-in-law Stanley Mortimer.
Friends may call Friday, January 16, 2026 from 11 am to 1 pm in the Bellville Snyder Funeral Home where the funeral service will follow at 1 pm. Pastor Patrick Bailey will officiate and burial will follow in Bunkerhill Cemetery.
Memorial donations in honor of Butch may be made to Tunnels to Towers.
Messages of support are encouraged at snyderfuneralhomes.com
Funeral Home: Bellville Snyder Funeral Home
Website: www.snyderfuneralhomes.com