Roland Wendell Williams (Bud to many who knew him) died peacefully on Monday, January 26, 2026, after a long illness, with his wife of more than 70 years, Alice (Hawk) Williams, at his side. He was born on November 21, 1928, in Malvern, Ohio, to Ivor and Grace (Campbell) Williams.

After graduating from Kent State University and completing his military service, Bud began a long and distinguished career with Ford Motor Company. He held positions in public and government relations, including serving as editor of the company’s magazine, Ford Times. Upon retiring in the early 1990s, Bud devoted himself wholeheartedly to the important work of grandparenting, sharing his love of music, storytelling, good writing (whether news stories, historical fiction, or nonfiction), and card-playing.

A longtime member of First Presbyterian Church of Farmington, Bud remained connected to his church community through Alice and pastoral visits long after his mobility limited his ability to attend services.

Bud was preceded in death by his daughter, Lee Ann. He is survived by his wife, Alice (Hawk) Williams of Novi, MI; his two sons, Michael (Cheryl) Williams of Farmington Hills, MI, and Joseph Williams of Leesburg, VA; and his daughter, Debbie (Dale) Minter of Lincoln, NE.

He is also survived by seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild: Jeff Williams; Brian (Jen) Williams and baby Alice of Michigan; Nathaniel Williams of Maryland; Catherine Williams of North Carolina; Jeremy Williams of Virginia; Tyler Minter of Washington, DC; and Matthew Minter of Nebraska. Bud is further survived by his sister, Sandra Sarbach of Malvern, Ohio, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and neighborhood children whom he cherished.

A memorial service celebrating Bud’s life will be held on March 14, 2026, at First Presbyterian Church of Farmington, 26165 Farmington Rd, Farmington Hills, MI 48334. Visiting hours will begin at 10 a.m., followed by the service at 11 a.m., with a light lunch to follow—all at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to First Presbyterian Church of Farmington or to a favorite charity in Bud’s memory.