Glen Russell Williams

Glen Russell Williams, 76, passed away on June 4, 2022 in Pocatello, Idaho. Russ was born on August 7, 1945 and grew up in Mills, UT, having a country adventure with a large family of siblings and cousins.

Russ attended Juab High School in Nephi, UT graduating in 1965. He attended Utah Trade Tech in Provo, UT in diesel mechanics, prior to volunteering for service in the US Army. After his retirement, he became a member of the VFW. In his younger years, Russ owned a diner in Cedar City, UT called Old Silverleaf. They were known for their spudnuts. Also, he owned the Milford, UT Newspaper. At one point, he was given the chance to interview Senator Hatch, because of this, he was privileged to develop a relationship with Senator Hatch. 

As time went on, Russ hit a rough patch, so he went back to school at the Southern Utah University. He wanted to help others get through whatever life throws at them. This led him to graduate with a Bachelors in Social Science. He went on to counsel countless individuals with mental illness and drug addiction. Russ always helped those in need, including struggling youth. He also became a member of NAMI.

Russ and Mary Ellen met while attending SUU. They married on June 10, 1991 and were sealed in the St. George Temple exactly one year later. He enjoyed spending time with his family, especially the grandkids. They were dear to him. In fact, he wanted to leave something very personal for each of them. So, using a technique called crewel stitchers, he hand stitched Christmas stockings for all his grandkids. His grandkids all love him and will remember him fondly.

The family would like to give a special thank you to the Idaho State Veterans Home administration and staff for the great care given and love shown to Russ.

Russ is survived by his wife, Mary Ellen Williams of Lava Hot Springs, ID; daughter, Sabrina (Jasson) Mathews of Lava Hot Springs, ID; son, Tim (Mandy) Hanson of Pocatello, ID; brother, Max (Terri) Williams of Ontario, OR; sister, Ellen (Larry) Ostler of Nephi, UT; brother, Mark Williams of Amado, AZ; sister, JoAnn Williams Kump of Draper, UT; 14 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harlin Joseph and Velma Louise Williams, and brothers, John Robert, and Ted Harlin Williams.

Russ was laid to rest in the Lava Hot Springs Cemetery.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. 

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