Hector Williams
Hector Williams was born in 1945, and would become the third generation to work the family farm in Goulds, NL. His grandfather Henry established the dairy and vegetable farm in the early 1900s, followed by his father Ernest. In 1970, after Ernest鈥檚 passing, sons Hector and Eric assumed responsibility and transitioned to a strictly dairy operation. Through diligent management and progressive planning, the brothers expanded the farm from 30 head of cattle and 75 acres to 300 head of cattle and 450 acres. The brothers operated H & E Williams Dairy Farm together until Eric鈥檚 death in 2000. Today, the farm is operating under the fourth generation of Williams farmers, Hector鈥檚 son Terry.
For over 60 years, Hector dedicated himself to the successful operation of the family farm. He also spent considerable time and energy in improving the industry for fellow dairy farmers. Hector was one of the founding farmers who established the Milk Marketing Board, now the Dairy Farmers of Newfoundland and Labrador (DFNL). This marked the beginning of milk supply management in the province, helping to secure the future of the dairy industry for producers.
Hector is well-known for his leadership of provincial organizations across agricultural sectors. From 1967-1983 he served in a variety of roles within the Newfoundland and Labrador Dairymen鈥檚 Association, including as Chair, board member, and other executive positions. For 34 years, Hector was a board member of the Eastern Farmers Co-op, including 12 years as President. From 1999-2016 he was the Director of DFNL, and served as the organization鈥檚 representative on the Federation of Agriculture and Agri-Adapt Council. Hector was also on the Farm Debt Review Board for ten years. Regardless of the organization, Hector served with dedication and a commitment to strengthening the industry for all producers in the province.
Hector鈥檚 outstanding commitment has not gone unrecognized. In 2016, he was honoured by the NL Federation of Agriculture for his long standing contribution to the farming industry. The Williams family was also recognized at the 2nd Annual Agricultural Home and Garden Show during the year of the family farm. Hector has a passion for sharing his knowledge and expertise, and his mentorship of fellow producers and dedication to all areas of agriculture has created a stronger industry for all.
Hector has also provided great support to his community. For forty years he has been an active member of the local standardbred harness racing community. In 2008, Hector was recognized at the Atlantic Breeders Crown for his long time involvement and contribution to harness racing in Newfoundland. Hector has also served in a variety of roles within his church community, and for two years sat on Goulds Town Council.
As a volunteer, Hector has supported numerous fairs and events, including Farmers Field Days and the Food and Livestock Shows. He can always be called upon to share his time with local 4H clubs, the School Milk Foundation, and the Federation of Agriculture. Now retired, Hector enjoys volunteering within his church and spending time with his large family 鈥� his wife Elaine and children Tony, Terry, Kim, Stephanie, Dawn, and Krista, and his many grandchildren.
Nominated by the Dairy Farmers of Newfoundland and Labrador for his outstanding contributions to the dairy industry, Hector Williams is a worthy inductee into the Atlantic Agricultural Hall of Fame.