09/04/2026
💙
Paul “Chico” Williams, age 63, passed away on August 29, 2026. He was born on November 14, 1962, to Anne C. Williams and Kenneth Williams Sr. He was the grandson of Titus and Anne Samuels.
Chico was a Coeur d’Alene Tribal member with Nez Perce roots. He came from a large family and shared his life with his siblings: Kathleen (Larry) Payne, David (Denise) Comer, Titus “Baims” Williams, Terri (Joseph) Calfrobe, Tia (Rick) Hernandez, Wilma Williams, Maria Williams, Virginia “Ginger” Jones, Dwight Williams, Kenny Williams Jr., and Alex “Bones” Williams.
Those who knew Chico knew that he enjoyed life on his own terms. He loved his morning routine of coffee, music, and Sudoku, and he was an enthusiastic sports fan. Among his favorite teams were the Pittsburgh Steelers, Washington Redskins, and Philadelphia 76ers. He enjoyed reading books, watching sports and was fiercely competitive himself. Chico seemed to have only two speeds—fast and faster.
Chico was an athlete and loved competition. He played basketball, pool, darts, horseshoes, and boxing. One of the accomplishments his family remembers with pride was his time playing on the basketball team that became the only Culdesac team to win the Idaho State Basketball tournament.
Whether he was competing, terrorizing his nieces and nephews, cruising with his bros, spending time with family and friends, or simply enjoying the things he loved, he was always genuine. He was unapologetically himself, and that authenticity was one of the many things that made him so special.
Chico never had children of his own, however he lovingly supported his nieces, nephews, and grandchildren by being present for their sporting events, special occasions, and important milestones.
Some of the best memories of Chico are the ones that make people smile. His longtime best friend & brother Baims held a special place in his life. The two could argue and carry on “like a married couple,” but underneath it was the bond of a true and lasting friendship.
On July 10, 2018, Chico was blessed to share the later years of his life with his beloved wife, Yvonne Broncheau-Williams. Together, they found joy in the simple things that made life special — dancing together, laughing and having fun, watching movies, and taking peaceful cruises through the mountains. Their time together was filled with companionship, love, and countless treasured moments. Yvonne brought happiness and warmth into Chico’s life, and the memories they created together will forever remain a beautiful part of his story.
Chico’s life cannot be measured simply by the years between November 14, 1962, and August 29, 2026. It is measured in the memories he created, the competition he loved, the laughter he caused, the friendships he kept, and especially the time he shared with his wife, his brothers, his sisters, his family, and those fortunate enough to call him a friend.
Paul “Chico” Williams will be deeply missed, but the stories, laughter, and memories he gave those who loved him will remain. His time with us was far too short, but the time we had with him was a gift.
“His footsteps have left this earth, but his spirit travels on—in the memories, laughter, and love of those who walked beside him.”
