Born in Lexington on Oct. 14, 1964, to Ronnie and Thelma “Boots” Williams, his childhood was marked by his love for the outdoors, whether it was riding motorcycles or playing football with the children of his neighborhood.

His dedication and determination were evident early on, and after graduating from Parry McCluer High School in 1983, he set his sights on a greater purpose. In 1984, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, a decision that would shape the course of his life. His military journey began at Edwards Air Force Base in California, where he served from 1984 to 1987, before being stationed at Kwang Ju Air Force Base in South Korea. It was there that he met the love of his life, Kyong (Ume), and they were married, later welcoming their daughter, April.

Over the course of his 25.5year military career, he was stationed at various bases, including Shaw AFB, S.C., Osan AB in South Korea, Pope AFB in North Carolina, and Sheppard AFB in Texas. He rose to the rank of master sergeant, earning a Master of Arts in Education with honors (summa cum laude). He served with distinction during Operation Southern Watch, as a dedicated crew chief on the A-10 Warthog “Flying Tigers” and in numerous other capacities throughout his career. His final post before retirement was at Sheppard AFB, Texas, where he was the F-15 section chief and managed the entire hangar, equipment, aircraft, and Air Force personnel. Kevin retired from the United States Air Force in 2009, having served with honor and dedication.

Following his retirement, he continued to serve his country, by becoming a Training Instructor Casualty Affairs for the United States Department of the Army on Fort Meade, Md. He currently served this position for over 14 years at the Casualty Assistance Center. He was responsible for planning, organizing and coordinating training on Casualty, Mortuary Affairs, Mass Casualty, Military Burial Honors, Line of Duty, Solider and Family Pre-Deployment Training, Summary Courts Martial Office, Initial Training to Casualty Assistance Center Staff and much more.

Kevin was a true servant leader, known for his compassion, kindness, and unwavering commitment to others. Whether through his military service or in his personal life, he prioritized the needs of others above his own, always with a smile. He was a steady source of support and an invaluable resource to all who knew him. His love for simple things, spending time with family, and care for animals were at the heart of his life. He was also an avid fan of football and NASCAR, and had the opportunity to work alongside his sister, Amy, at several NASCAR races in Texas.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Charlie and Louise Gilbert, Hallie F. Williams, and his uncles, Lewis Gilbert and James “Bill” Gilbert.

He leaves behind his loving wife, Kyong “Ume” Williams of Laurel, Md.; his beloved daughter, April Williams of Laurel, Md.; his parents, Ronnie and Thelma “Boots” Williams of Concord, N.C.; his sister and brother-in-law, Amy and Larry Ross of Charlotte, N.C.; his aunt, Frances Brown of Natural Bridge Station; his uncle, Arnold Williams of Natural Bridge Station; and many dear cousins.

A funeral will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 10, at Beall Funeral Home, 6512 Crain Hwy, Bowie, Md., with a viewing one hour prior to the service.

A celebration of life service will be held at noon on Saturday,May 17, at First Brethren Church, 100 E. 29th St., Buena Vista.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to the Maryland City Volunteer Fire Department, 3498 Fort Meade Road, Laurel, MD 20724.

Burial will be at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Beall Funeral Home of Bowie, Md. NG