OKEECHOBEE – Okeechobee’s Farm City Week Luncheon, held Nov. 21 at the Okeechobee KOA, included the presentation of a special award to Wes Williamson. "In honor of your dedicated service to agriculture in the Okeechobee Community."

John Williamson, presented the award. He said the many organizations his father has devoted his time to include: Currently chairman of the Economic Council of Okeechobee, founding member of Okeechobee County Economic Development Corporation, founding member of Florida Heritage Beef, chairman of the Florida Cattle Enhancement Board, Florida Cattlemen Association president in 2013 and 2014, treasurer of the Okeechobee County Cattlemen’s Association, president of the Okeechobee County Cattlemen’s Association, director of the Okeechobee County Cattlemen’s Association, member of the Florida Cattlemen’s Association executive committee, director of the Okeechobee Education Foundation, president of the Okeechobee Youth Livestock Show Committee, former director of Okeechobee County Farm Bureau, director and president of Pioneer Ag Chem/Diamond R, former supervisor of the Okeechobee Soil and Water Conservation District, management committee of the Catfish Feedmill, the Catfish Institute and Florida Cattle Association Environmental and Private Lands Committee.

“These are the credentials, but I wanted to tell you a little about the man, I want to brag on him because that is something he simply will not do himself,” said John. “Dad is a man of strong faith. He loves his savior Jesus Christ and he implements these principles.

“He is a lifelong resident of Okeechobee and has many friends here and he has given selflessly.

Under his leadership, Williamson Cattle Company, the family business has grown and diversified, John continued.  “It has grown under his leadership into one of the largest cattle and catfish operations in the country.

“My grandfather said of those with many blessings there are many expectations,” he said. “Dad has certainly lived up to that.”

OKEECHOBEE -- Wes Williamson (left) was honored with a special award at the 2025 Okeechobee Farm City Week luncheon: "In honor of your dedicated service to agriculture in the Okeechobee Community." The award was presented by John Williamson (right), representing the Florida Cattlemen's Association. [Photo by Katrina Elsken/Lake Okeechobee News]