New Rockford Resident, Former Collins Aerospace Worker Monte Williams Dies at 62

Monte Jo Williams, 62, of New Rockford died early Saturday at Sanford Medical Center in Fargo after complications from cancer and treatment. Williams was known locally for his longtime work at Collins Aerospace in Jamestown and for his engagement in outdoor pursuits that are common in Stutsman County life.

Williams was born Dec. 28, 1963, in Carrington. He spent years in automotive services before joining Collins Aerospace in Jamestown, where he worked from 1996 until 2024. His employment spanned nearly three decades at a major regional employer, tying him closely to Jamestown’s industrial workforce and to families across Stutsman County who rely on the manufacturing sector for livelihoods.

Outside of work, Williams enjoyed gardening, rock hounding, camping, and spending time with family. Those personal interests placed him among many county residents who spend weekends at area lakes, county roadsides and public lands looking for agates and enjoying the outdoors. His passing will be felt among neighbors, church members and coworkers who shared those pursuits.

Survivors include his wife, Patty Williams, children Jewel Williams and Jake Williams, siblings and an extended circle of family. Visitation is scheduled for Friday, Jan. 23, 2026, from 1:00 to 2:00 PM at First Lutheran Church in New Rockford, followed by a funeral at 2:00 PM. Burial will take place later at Mose Cemetery in Binford. The arrangements provide a focal point for the community to pay respects and offer support to the Williams family.

Williams’ death also highlights local patterns in healthcare and workforce resilience. Receiving treatment at Sanford Medical Center in Fargo underscores the county’s reliance on regional medical centers for specialized cancer care. His nearly 28-year tenure at Collins Aerospace is a reminder of how long-term employment at a single employer shapes social networks and civic life in small towns like New Rockford and Jamestown.

For neighbors and former colleagues, the visitation and funeral offer a chance to honor a life rooted in county traditions of outdoor recreation, church fellowship and industrial labor. In practical terms, the services provide a moment for community support and for local institutions to assist a family navigating loss and ongoing needs.