September 11, 1943 ~ August 20, 2026 (age 82)
Michael “Mike” Williams, 82, of Notasulga passed peacefully on August 20, 2026.
Mike was a remarkable scientist and entomologist whose dedication to his work, generosity in sharing his knowledge, and genuine kindness left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him. His contributions to entomology and Auburn University will be remembered with great respect and appreciation.
Mike was born in Paragould, Arkansas, to Myron and Lois Williams.
He earned his bachelor’s degree in biology and chemistry from Arkansas State University before continuing his studies at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech), where he earned a master’s degree in entomology and biology and, in 1972, a Ph.D. in entomology.
From 1971–1973, he served as the Assistant State Entomologist for the Maryland State Department of Agriculture.
Mike devoted the bulk of his professional life to Auburn University, where he was a longtime professor of entomology and served for many years as department chair. A dedicated scholar and researcher, his research took him around the world. He spoke Spanish, one of the many ways his curiosity and learning extended beyond his own field.
During his career, he was selected for inclusion in Personalities of the South, American Men and Women of Science, Who’s Who in America, and International Directory of Distinguished Leadership. In 2019, Mike was named a Distinguished Alumnus in Academia by Virginia Tech’s Alumni Organization.
He was a quiet, gentle, and loving man with multiple talents who left a lasting impression through his scientific career. He will be missed and remembered by countless students and colleagues whose careers were inspired and encouraged by him.
Mike found happiness in a simple and full life—spending time with his family, working on his land, hunting and fishing, woodcarving, and sharing lunch and conversation with friends at the senior center and his men’s group at church. He carried a lifelong curiosity about the natural world, especially insects, and his family and friends sent countless pictures of bugs for him to identify.
He was a devoted member of First Presbyterian Church, where he was actively involved for many years and served as an elder.
He had a hard time throwing things away and was known for keeping nearly everything and occasionally for collecting things other people had discarded.
Above all, Mike will be remembered for his goodness, his quiet nature, and the steady affection he gave to his family and the people around him.
Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Myron and Lois Williams, and his brother, Ronnie Williams.
He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Carolyn Williams; his children, Greg (Sandi) Williams of Auburn and Katie (Kyle) Lindsey of Auburn; his grandchildren, Toni (Jim) Patrick, Erica (Alex) Farrell, Stewart (Micaela) Kaye, Spencer Kaye, and Grace Kaye; and his great-grandchildren, Cassidy and William Patrick and Graeme and Conor Farrell. He is also survived by his sister, Janine Morrow, and nephew, Adam Morrow.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, August 28, at 3:00 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church in Auburn, Alabama. Immediately following the service, a reception will be held at the church.
Following cremation, his family will gather privately to scatter his ashes in a beloved place on his land.
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