Sam Williams, Young Healdsburg Dad, Dies in 101 Rollover Crash

Healdsburg resident Sam Williams, the 25-year-old father of a young boy, died in a solo-vehicle crash along Highway 101 last week, according to the Sonoma County Sheriff and the California Highway Patrol. Sam’s loved ones have since set up a fundraiser for his son Leo on the Ever Loved website. “We know that Sam loved Leo more than anything in this world,” they write. “Your contribution will go toward a college fund, or whatever Leo and his family feel would best honor Sam, and support Leo when he is grown.” Just over a week after his death, more than $16,000 has already been donated. Sam was driving his Toyota Tacoma truck along the southbound 101, just north of Westside Road, when he veered off the righthand shoulder of the highway just after 3pm on May 2, according to CHP officials. “For reasons yet to be determined, the Toyota veered to the right off the roadway, went down an embankment, and rolled,” officials say. “It does not appear the Toyota was traveling at a high rate of speed.” Here are some more details about Sam’s life, from his obituary: “Born and raised in Healdsburg, Sam was a true hometown hero. His gentle spirit, kind heart, warm smile, and genuine interest in building relationships left a lasting impression on everyone he met. His departure leaves a void that can never be filled, but will often be celebrated. Sam was a proud graduate of Healdsburg High School, class of 2017, where he was a member of the wrestling team, football, and baseball. Following graduation, Sam took on a larger role in the family business, Fitch Mountain Tree Service. He displayed a strong work ethic and admirable manners. Lastly, and most importantly, Sam was an extraordinary father to Leo, overflowing with care, deep love and devotion.” Sam’s former Healdsburg Little League coach, David Reed, writes on Facebook: “I had the pleasure to coach Sam and watch him grow into a fine young man. On the field he was a strong competitor who always worked hard, played hard, respected the game and cared about his teammates. And after HLL, it was wonderful seeing him settle in to adulthood and become a father! What a horrible loss.” A celebration of life for Williams will be held at 1:30pm next Friday, May 17, at the Calvary Chapel River Fellowship church in Windsor. (Source: Ever Loved & Santa Rosa CHP via Facebook & Legacy.com & Healdsburg Little League via Facebook)