Richard E. Williamson

Richard E. Williamson, age 83, of Merritt Island, FL passed away on January 2, 2024. Beloved husband of Nadine (nee Burkett) and loving father of Rick Williamson (Suzie), Keith Williamson (Lori), and Tara Underwood (Jimmy). Devoted grandfather of Maddie, Cole, Caity, Kaci, Kyle and Alexis. He is also survived by one brother, James (Kathie), three nephews (Johnny, Todd, and Clark) and numerous cousins. He is preceded in death by his parents, Edwin and Elizabeth Williamson, of Norwich, Connecticut.

Dick was born in Norwich, CT and attended the University of Connecticut where he graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, before entering the United States Air Force. While stationed at Eglin AFB, FL supporting the Mercury and Gemini programs, he met the love of his life and bride of more than 59 years. After serving in the Air Force, Dick moved to the Space Coast where he worked for Pan American World Airways supporting the Gemini and Apollo Manned Space Programs. During this period, he furthered his education and obtained a Master’s Degree from Florida Tech. He spent most of his career with the Naval Ordnance Test Unit (NOTU) at Cape Canaveral supporting the Poseidon, Polaris, Trident I and Trident II Programs, including the United Kingdom ballistic missile programs. Dick and Nadine started their family in Indialantic, FL then moved to Merritt Island where he built their forever home on the river with the “million dollar” view that he always loved. Dick loved to cruise with family, chat with people around the world on Amateur Radio, turn projects on his wood lathe, raise birds, and tinker in the garage, always repairing something or mentoring his children. He was well known for his calm demeanor, quit wit, and colorful stories he told as the Rocket Scientist of the family.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Dick’s memory to Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s or charity of your choice.

A visitation for Richard will be held Wednesday, January 10, 2024 from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM at Church of Our Saviours, 5301 N. Atlantic Avenue, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931. A funeral mass will occur Wednesday, January 10, 2024 from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM, 5301 N. Atlantic Avenue, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931. A cemetery will occur Wednesday, January 10, 2024 from 1:30 PM to 2:00 PM at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery, 5525 US Hwy 1, Mims, FL 32754.