Texas oil and gas pioneer Clayton W. Williams Jr. recently passed away surrounded by family and friends.
According to CBS 7, Williams died from complications associated with pneumonia. He was 88.
Born in nearby Alpine, Williams founded at least 26 major companies over his lifetime, including what is now Aquila Gas Pipeline Corp., the largest privately owned natural gas company in the state.
A graduate of Texas A&M University, Williams is also credited with building the first totally digital microwave long-distance network in Texas and with developing farming and ranching operations that totaled more than 450,000 acres of land in Texas and Wyoming.
A lifelong Republican, Williams was also active in the world of politics, running for governor in 1990 and serving as a major fundraiser for Sen. John McCain’s 2008 presidential run.
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott was among those saluting Williams, releasing a statement that read "Claytie Williams was a giant among Texans and will be remembered for his incredible business acumen and philanthropic acts. His impact on the Permian Basin will be lasting and his legacy will live on as a man who helped drive the American oil and gas boom –leading to our nation’s energy independence. Claytie and Modesta transformed Midland with their ingenuity, warmth and kindness.”
Williams is also remembered for his many gifts and contributions to Texas A&M over the years, with students from the school’s Association of Former Students recently paying tribute by naming the alumni center for him. In 1981, Texas A&M and The Association of Former Students presented Williams with the Distinguished Alumnus Award, the highest honor bestowed upon a former Texas A&M student.