Henry Harvey Williams was born on the 6th January 1917 in the village of Gomea, St. Vincent. After completing his secondary education at the St. Vincent Boys' Grammar School, he taught for a few years before entering the Public Service. In 1942, he married Eileen Dougan, and left the Service for a brief stint in Curacao.

On his return to St. Vincent, H.H. (as he's affectionately known to relatives and friends,) resumed his teaching career at his Alma Mater, the St. Vincent Boys' Grammar School, then once again entered the Public Service. Well-known for his humility, integrity and high moral principles, H.H. rose to the level of Chief Secretary, St. Vincent.

In 1956, he was seconded to Carriacou as District Officer, and two years later was appointed Assistant Administrator, Grenada -a post he held for about four years.

Always an ambitious and excellent scholar, Henry Williams gained his Bachelor's degree externally and qualified as a Barrister-at-Law while maintaining his Civil Service career. It was only after his return to St. Vincent from Grenada that he practised law for which he had qualified years before. During this time he worked briefly as Extramural Tutor, U.W.I, in both Montserrat and St. Vincent. His illustrious career was crowned by his appointment as Acting Governor General in 1988, a post he held with pride and dignity, never compromising his integrity.

For many years he was an active member of The St. Vincent Music Association, The Lions' Club and the St. Vincent National Trust. He served as Chairman of the National Independence Committee and was a strong advocate of constitutional change and Caribbean unification.

He spent his final days quietly with his wife of sixty-two years, tending his garden and dogs and playing his violin.

Henry Harvey Williams died peacefully at his home on 11th November 2004. He is survived by his wife Eileen and five children.