Rachel Diane Williams passed away from cervical cancer on February 28, 2026, after a hard-fought, seven-month battle. Rachel was born November 29, 1977, in Corvallis, Oregon and grew up in Philomath.
Rachel graduated from Philomath High School in 1996. In high school, Rachel was involved in sports and became a member of the Lettermen’s Club. She played volleyball and softball and was a manager for the wrestling team, including the year they took the state championship. This team was inducted into the Philomath High School Hall of Fame. Rachel was involved in 4-H and had a love for animals, especially horses and dogs. She also volunteered at the Heartland Humane Society.
After high school, Rachel attended Haskell Indian Nations University in Lawrence, Kansas. She was a proud member of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians of Oregon, honoring and celebrating her Native roots throughout her life. She embraced her culture by attending pow wows and celebrating traditions. After Haskell, Rachel joined the U.S. Army and became a medic until she was honorably discharged.
Rachel loved Kansas from her time at Haskell and eventually moved there. Rachel loved traveling, attending concerts and sharing Comic-Con adventures with her son, Garrett. She was a huge fan of the Oregon State Beavers and Atlanta Falcons. She would travel for hours to watch Oregon State play. She also found joy in simple favorites like “My Little Pony,” “Little House on the Prairie,” doing jigsaw puzzles and watching the TV show “Friends.” Bird watching, especially seeing eagles, and thrifting at any secondhand store were her passion. Her spirit touched all who knew her.
She is survived by her beloved son, Garrett Williams; her parents, Jeffrey Williams, Deborah Williams and Velma Johnston; her sisters, Cheri Williams and Christi Loveall (Richard); her nephew, Chase Loveall; her cousin and lifelong brother in heart, Bradlee France; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and countless friends who were like family.
A celebration of her life will be held April 18, 2026, at the Philomath Scout Lodge, 660 Clemens Mill Road, Philomath, Oregon. The service starts at noon with a luncheon to follow. Guests are encouraged to wear Philomath High School or Oregon State University colors, or Native regalia (not full), to honor her memory. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in her name to Philomath High School Athletics or Heartland Humane Society.