Wesley Steven Williams ’79

Wesley Steven Williams ’79 of Orangeburg, South Carolina, died on September 19, 2024. Steve was born on September 20, 1957, and grew up in Norway, South Carolina, with an insatiable curiosity for the world and animals. At Wade Hampton Academy he was elected governor of Palmetto Boys State and served as a page for U.S. Sen. Strom Thurmond. At Dartmouth freshman year Steve lived in South Fayerweather and was elected to the Freshman Council. Steve joined Tri-Kap, majored in government, and joined the Daniel Webster Society and the College Republicans. He went on the language study abroad to Mexico and worked as a public speaking teaching assistant. After Dartmouth Steve earned a master’s in journalism from the University of South Carolina. Steve pursued several careers, including seven years with his family farming business selling cucumbers, life insurance sales, and 14 years with a large sod company. In 2008 Steve started his consulting firm speaking about the “power of focused curiosity.” Steve was known for his vibrant personality and strong opinions. He approached life with a fierce passion, following his motto, “Go big or go home.” Steve carried a rich heritage of all things Southern, endearingly addressing classmates as “ol’ boy.” With his charm and wit, Steve seemed older than his years. He will be deeply missed. Steve is survived by his wife, Ann, daughters Annlouise and Sidney, and grandchildren Lou and Bertie.