Chad Williams

Chad Lynn Williams, 62, of Gifford, AR, passed away at his home last week after a long and courageous battle with multiple health challenges.

Born on April 23, 1963, in McPherson, KS, Chad was raised in North Little Rock, AR alongside his two younger siblings, with a third sibling joining the family years later. Chad was the classic big brother—always roughhousing, picking fights, and making up his own rules. But when it really mattered, he stepped up and helped his parents and siblings without hesitation.

Chad graduated from Catholic High School for Boys in 1982 and soon after began working at Southern Office Services (SOS). In 1996, while working, he fell down an elevator shaft resulting in injuries that forever altered his physical health. Though his role shifted following the accident, Chad remained a loyal and dedicated employee of SOS until the company’s closure in 2021, which marked his retirement from the workforce.

In 1993, Chad married and through that union gained a bonus family who lovingly gave him the enduring titles of Grumpy and Poppy—roles he cherished and embraced wholeheartedly well beyond the marriage’s end in 2010.

A lifelong outdoorsman, Chad developed a passion early on for hunting and dog training/showing. He bred and raised several champion Black and Tan Coonhounds, most notably his pride and joy, Grand Night Champion Grand Champion “PR” Williams’ Black Bullet. In later years, he turned his focus to Retrievers, earning respect throughout the region as both a trainer and later a judge. His dedication to the field continued even into his final days.

Chad had a deep appreciation for nature and adventure. He loved attending concerts, hiking, and traveling to new places whenever possible—especially enjoying time spent on the Buffalo River. He participated in shamanic studies, collected crystals, and had an appreciation for firearms. Even as his mobility declined, he remained determined to enjoy life’s pleasures at every opportunity.

Chad was preceded in death by his mother, Barbara Williams. He is survived by his father, Richard “Dick” Williams; his siblings Kevin Williams (Debbie), Brenda Melvin (Rick), and Alison Williams; his nephew and nieces, Eric Melvin, Kaylee Hilliard (Drake), and Emma Melvin; great-nephews Dakota and Maddox “Max” Hilliard; his beloved puppy, Cannon; and a host of extended family and friends who will miss him dearly.

Chad will be remembered for his unique sense of humor, his passion for animals, and his quiet, but purposeful spirit.

The family will receive friends Monday, September 8, 2025 from 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church followed by a memorial service.

The family invites you to honor Chad by wearing your best camouflage and/or hunter orange with blue jeans to the service.