October 5, 1951 – November 21, 2022

Earnest L. “B” Williams, 71, of Higginsville, Mo., formerly of Marshall, died Monday, Nov. 21, 2022, at Lee’s Summit Medical Center in Lee’s Summit.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, Dec. 5, 2022, at Higginsville Habilitation Center Ragland Gym with William W. Harlow officiating. Burial will follow in Higginsville City Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the charity of donor’s choice in care of Campbell-Lewis Funeral Home. An online guestbook is available at www.campbell-lewis.com.

Born Oct. 5, 1951, he was the son of the late Evelyn Willoughby Samuel and Yancy Williams. Earnest was a resident of Marshall Habilitation Center from 1971, where he built many relationships with staff, until its closing in 2015 when he moved to the Higginsville Habilitation Center, continuing to build those relationships. “B” loved to collect sunglasses, cups, hats, and bags that he received as gifts from the staff. He enjoyed visiting with his neighbors, sitting outside on the patio, swinging and rocking in his rocking chair, going to work and music. His love of music included singing songs, listening to the radio, and especially enjoying gospel music. He loved seeing John Deere tractors as well as watching and looking at airplanes. “B” was a one of a kind guy that was loved by the staff that cared for him who feels that nothing will be the same without him. His infectious laugh will be missed by everyone.

In addition to his staff “family” from Marshall and Higginsville; he is survived by two brothers, Joseph and Charles Willoughby.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Larry Willoughby; and his stepfather, Hearthon Samuel.