Kirk Remley Williams, M.D.

Kirk Remley Williams M.D., 60, of Liberty, Missouri, passed away on January 15, 2013. Dr. Williams was born August 13, 1952, in Independence, Missouri. He graduated from Pembroke-Country Day School in 1970 as Class Valedictorian. He was a National Merit Scholar, a Presidential Scholar, and a Yale National Scholar.

He graduated from Yale University in 1974 with a B.S. in Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry. In 1978, Kirk graduated from the University of Missouri Medical School, followed by a residency in Pathology.

Dr. Williams was board certified in Anatomic and Clinical Pathology and a partner in MAWD Pathology Group from 1982 until his “quitirement” in 2005. At Liberty Hospital, where he served as Chair of the Department of Medicine in 1989 and Medical Staff President in 1991, he was Medical Director of the Laboratory for twenty-three years.

Kirk loved cooking, composing, reading, sports, and intellectual challenges. He was a lively and generous host. His passion and creativity as a chef were admired and appreciated by friends and family, who enjoyed his exquisite meals, cocktails, and wine list.

Kirk was a talented musician and a gifted lyricist, playing drums, guitar, bass, harmonica and keys in blues and rock ‘n roll bands. A season ticket holder for the Kansas City Chiefs since 1963, Kirk loved football. He played for Pembroke-Country Day School as a kicker, linebacker and center.

Kirk’s family loved weekend golf outings with him, where his long drives always carried the team in a game of scramble.

While his talents were exceptional and many, Kirk’s manner with those around him was understated, genuinely curious, and always respectful. Strong willed and wise, he approached life with amusement and good humor, including in the hardest of times.

Most of all, Kirk Williams was an inspiration to everyone with whom he came in contact. Magnanimous with all, he had a magical way with children, whom he loved to quiz and challenge, relentlessly encouraging them to exercise their minds in all areas.

Survivors include his wife, Linda Middleton Williams, daughter Gail Anne Williams of Palo Alto, California, son Matthew Richard Staples and wife Ashley of Kansas City, Missouri, and his parents Van Oren Williams, Jr. and Myra Remley Williams of Green Valley, Arizona.  Kirk will be remembered as a devoted son, loving husband, proud father, and treasured and loyal friend.

Memorial contributions may be sent to The Pembroke Hill School in Kansas City, Missouri, and to Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary in Liberty, Missouri.