Leland "Lee" E. Williams

Leland “Lee” E. Williams, Jr., age 77, of Topeka, passed away Thursday, January 6, 2022 in Topeka.  Leland was born October 21, 1944 in Corona, California the son of Leland “Jack” E., Sr.  and Rose (Bowman) Williams.  Leland grew up and graduated from Netawaka High School in 1962.  He then attended Highland Community College.  Leland married the love of his life,  Mary Lou Gharst, October 30, 1964 in Holton, KS.   He worked for Santa Fe Railroad for over 29 years.  After retiring, Leland and Mary Lou owned and operated Signs to Go in Topeka for over 30 years.  Leland was an avid golfer, serving as past president of Shawnee Country Club.  He volunteered with the Central Links Golf where he served as tournament official on several local tournaments.  He officiated with the Topeka Officials Association for 25 years, including four years as association president and was inducted into the 2010 Hall of Fame.  He trained and completed  the Topeka Tinman Triathlon in 1984.  Leland and Mary Lou enjoyed attending Washburn athletics.  Leland was an avid K.U. fan.  He never knew a stranger and was devoted to his family and friends.  He will be greatly missed by all.

Leland was preceded in death by a sister, Judy (Williams) Wagstaff in 2015.  Leland is survived by his wife of over 57 years, Mary Lou; three children, Kevin Williams, Kelly (Doug) Chilson and Kristi (Rick) Mitchell; and four grandchildren, Brandon Williams, Brittany Smith, Brock Mitchell and Jace Mitchell.

A Celebration of Leland’s life has been scheduled from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm on Friday, April 29, 2022 at the American Legion Post 400, 3029 NW Hwy 24 in Topeka.

A memorial golf event for Lee will be held Sunday, June 5, 2022 at Village Greens Golf Course, Meriden, KS.  Shotgun start at 1:30 p.m.  Sandwiches and chips will be served beginning at 12:30 p.m.  Please RSVP by May 13, 2022 with the names of team members to Kelly Chilson at [email protected] . You can also register and remit payment on the day of the event starting at 12:30 p.m. at the golf course.

www. davidsonfuneral.com