EDITOR'S NOTE: The following letter was submitted to The Montana Standard from Butte-Silver Bow Chief Executive J.P. Gallagher. Writing on behalf of Butte-Silver Bow, Gallagher extended the city's condolences to the family of Rep. Pat Williams of Butte. Williams died June 25 in Missoula at the age of 87. He was Montana’s longest-serving legislator, serving from 1979 to 1997.
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Rep. Pat Williams
It is with great sadness that we honor the life and legacy of Pat Williams, a beloved native son of Butte, along with his wife Carol, who also shares deep roots in our community. Pat’s lifelong dedication to public service, his unwavering advocacy for working families, education, and Montana’s wild landscapes, left an indelible mark on our state — and on Butte in particular.
J.P. Gallagher
Pat’s journey from a local teacher to Montana’s longest-serving member of the U.S. House of Representatives is a testament to the values that define Butte: resilience, compassion, and a deep commitment to justice. He remained a tireless champion for the underserved and an unwavering voice for our shared heritage and future.
Even after retiring from Congress, Pat continued to serve through education, mentorship, and public engagement. His courage, conviction, and heart will never be forgotten.
On behalf of all Butte-Silver Bow, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Carol and the Williams family.
Sincerely,
J.P. Gallagher
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