A Virginia cattle and grain farmer was celebrated last month for his decade-long commitment to agricultural advocacy and leadership.
Russell L. Williams II, who operates a farming business in Rockbridge County, received recognition on February 26th for his ten years of dedicated service as a board member of the Virginia Farm Bureau Federation. The honor was presented by VFBF President Scott Sink during the board’s gathering in Richmond.
In his role as District 5 director, Williams advocates for farming families across seven Virginia counties: Amherst, Augusta, Bath, Highland, Nelson, Rockbridge, and Rockingham.
Beyond his directorship duties, Williams leads the VFBF Membership Services Advisory Committee as chairman and serves as vice chairman of the organization’s Governance and Nominating Committee. He also contributes to the VFBF Farm Safety Advisory Committee.
Williams has deep roots in local agricultural leadership through his involvement with the Rockbridge County Farm Bureau, where he has held multiple leadership positions including president, vice president, and secretary/treasurer, in addition to serving on its board.
Since beginning his farming career in 1996, Williams has operated RLW Hay & Grain LLC alongside his son, Russell L. Williams III, focusing on cattle and small grain production.
The Virginia Tech graduate, who earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration, extends his community service beyond agriculture. He participates on the Rockbridge County Building Code Review Board, contributes to The Gideons International, and advises Virginia Tech’s McCormick Farm. Williams also serves as an elder at Grace Presbyterian Church in Lexington.
Williams and his wife Joyce are parents to four children and enjoy spending time with their six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
The Virginia Farm Bureau Federation represents nearly 137,000 members across 88 county organizations, making it the state’s most influential agricultural advocacy organization. The group operates as an independent, nonpartisan volunteer association dedicated to championing Virginia’s farming industry.
For additional information, contact Kathy Dixon, VFBF assistant director of communications, at 804-370-3055.
