Elmer LeRoy Williams was born on February 23, 1950, one of five children born to George F. and Katherine Irene (Crawford) Williams, in Miles City, Montana. Elmer's family ranched in Hammond. He grew up milking cows, helping on the ranch, and attending auctions. He came from a family of auctioneers. Although Elmer didn't carry the quick-tongued trait, he was very proud of the family members that were. His relative, Slug, was a huge part of his life, and Elmer adored him.

As Elmer reached his adult years, he became a part of Black Hills Workshop which is when he found his belonging in South Dakota. They taught him how to drive, assisted him with getting a job in the Rapid City area, and he purely enjoyed the learning experiences.

Elmer was a proud uncle. Each Christmas, he made sure that his nieces and nephews had a gift from him right from the heart. He and his nephew, Dakota, shared a birthday, and he lit up talking about them all.

Elmer moved to the Kadoka Nursing Home January 25, 2012. To describe his personality, he was happy, had a smile for anyone, and he loved people and became a huge part of not only the nursing home, but the entire community of Kadoka. He had an electric scooter when he first arrived and he would cruise the town meeting people in the community. Elmer attended every sporting event that was hosted in Kadoka, the annual homecoming pancake supper, rodeos, parades, 5K walks, and celebrations. He knew everyone in town and always gave a warm hello to them. Elmer enjoyed chewing tobacco, and he knew every individual in Kadoka that he could bum a chew from when he was running low.

Elmer loved to stay busy and help any way he could. He became a volunteer at the Jackson County Library until COVID put a damper on outings. He continued to be a volunteer at the Kadoka Nursing Home and was so proud to tell visitors about his duties and show them the importance of his badge. He received a t-shirt for every 5K walk in Kadoka and Philip. He was proud to show that he accomplished them. He also loved to wear his clothing attire that advertised the Kadoka Nursing Home and the Kadoka Kougars. He got a KNH cap this past year and was so happy to twin with us. He was one proud man.

Elmer was a keeper of our home. He watched out for other residents and our staff. He joined in on nearly every activity, helping with anything he possibly could. Elmer loved to joke and give a little heck. You would often hear him say “I’m feeling ornery today” and joke with the staff. He loved animals and took every chance to snuggle them. He helped the nursing home hatch out baby chicks and help name each one of them. Hearing his voice joking in the halls will be one that we will never forget.

Survivors include sister Ruth Ince of Rapid City; nieces Relepha Bucholz and family and Theresa Brown and family, both of Rapid City; brother Albert Williams of Vermont and nephew Kristopher Williams and family of Vermont; sister-in-law Roberta Williams of Rapid City; and a host of other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister Katharine Rebecca Williams; and brother James Louis Williams.

Memorial services will be held 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, May 10, at the Kadoka Nursing Home.

The interment will take place 1:00 p.m. Saturday, July 22, 2023 at Boyes Cemetery in Boyes, Montana.

Cards and memorials may be sent to 815 E New York St. Lot 42 Rapid City, SD 57701.