Fredrick (Rick) Charles Williams, Jr., 77

Fredrick (Rick) Charles Williams, Jr. of Middleburg, FL passed away into Glory on June 27, 2025. Rick was born on February 25, 1948, in Port Jervis, NY and later moved to Pittsburgh, PA where he graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School, Class of 1966. Rick served in the USAF during the Vietnam War and moved to Florida when his service time was completed. He attended Lake City Community College and received his FAA Certificates in 1973. Rick had an illustrious career in the aviation industry spanning over 50 years with experience as an Aircraft Mechanic, Chief QA, Maintenance Supervisor and finally retiring as Site Manager after working the U.S Customs and Border Protection contract for 34 years.

Rick was known for the love he had for his family and his community and led with a group of friends the “Men with Trucks” service ministry assisting families in crisis with immediate and long-term needs. In 2015 he was honored by the Justice Coalition with its Extraordinary Citizen Award having been nominated by then Sheriff Rick Beseler to represent Clay County, Florida. Believing that good men are called to stand in the gap and intercede for families in need, Rick was a frequent father and Papa figure, mentor, and friend. He loved nothing better than working through a mission with his fellow servants and then enjoying a BBQ after. Rick was a big man of great character who will be ever missed by his family and the community he loved to serve.

Rick was preceded in death by his father, Fredrick Williams and mother, Ann Williams. He is survived by his loving wife, Liz Williams; children, Chuck (Amy) Pesterfield, Lonnie Pesterfield, Carly (Mark) Boynton and Rosalie Williams; grandchildren, Danielle, Chloe, Lonnie Jr., Noah, Parker, Connor, Alexander, Liam, Penelope and Max; siblings, Dawn Gordon and Craig (Karen) Williams; close family friend, Tracy Carle; loving in-laws, many nephews and nieces, and a great group of great friends.

At Rick’s request there will be no services held. Instead he asked for those that knew him best to gather together on a mission to help someone in need and then to enjoy a BBQ after and think of him.

Arrangements are under the care of Russell Haven of Rest Cemetery, Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 2335 Sandridge Road, Green Cove Springs, FL  32043.  Family and friends may share their condolences at: www.RHRFH.com 904-284-7720