Born: Washington County, Iowa, March 15, 1840.
Died: Des Moines, Iowa, April 26, 1932.

Was born of Virginia and Pennsylvania pioneer stock, near Washington, Iowa, in 1840, and spent the most of his life in his native State. From a child he has been fond of books. After attending common schools until able to procure a certificate, he began teaching at an early age. While other young men of his vicinity entered the army during the Civil War, he was obliged to care for an invalid father until his death, near the close of the war, when Bro. Williams entered the army for a short time.

From army life he took up school life, entering the Iowa State University, and completed one of its courses in 1867. Since then his time has been given to teaching, preaching, lecturing and editorial work, having at one time been co-editor with B. W. Johnson of the Christian Evangelist. Among the many articles appearing in our papers from his pen are a number of poems, some of which have found a place of prominence in books of considerable merit.

As a preacher Mr. Williams, first of all, aims to be instructive. He is Scriptural in the broad sense of that term. He delights in showing the true philosophy of the religion of Christ. Although widely acquainted with literature, in his pulpit efforts he avoids the showy, literary style, and, in fact, everything that is mere show or sham. As a sermonizer he is regarded, by those who know him best, as, in the most important respects, the peer of his most gifted brethren. His sermons are noted for beauty, strength and Biblical accuracy, so that when tried by the divine rule they are not found wanting.

The subject of this sketch is still actively engaged in writing, preaching and lecturing, and in all this work is much sought after by his multitude of friends. His sons, Herman, Mark and Fred, chose their father's profession. A terrible calamity befell our dear brother and his precious family when, some years ago, Fred was drowned in the Des Moines River. Nothing save the hope of a better life could recompense for such a sad bereavement. Herman is a missionary in the Philippines. Bro. Williams is industrious, companionable and cheerful, and you will always be glad that you met him.