Rhoderick T. Williams Jr.

Dr. Rhoderick "Rod" Thomas Williams Jr., age 82 passed away on Wednesday, February 19, 2025. He was born on March 5, 1942, in Greenville, North Carolina to his late parents, Dr. Rhoderick and Juanita Williams.

He is preceded in death by his loving wife Elizabeth "Betsy" Clark Williams. The two met when they were teenagers but began dating when they both attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Their love for each other lasted over 60 years. In addition to being partners in life, Rod and Betsy were competitive partners on the tennis court and at the bridge table.

He is survived by his children, T. Miles Williams of Raleigh and Georgia Ball and husband Jon of Apex; grandchildren, Jason Ball and Jenna Ball; sisters, Nan Gibson and Lu Leonard.

Rod graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and its Medical School, with honors. Rod served in the Army during the Vietnam War where he was deployed, and received a Bronze Star Medal for his service. Upon returning home from Vietnam, he finished his residency in Radiology at Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, Pennsylvania. Upon completion he moved his family to Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina where he practiced as a Radiologist until his retirement.

Rod was lifeguard as a young adult which laid the groundwork for his lifelong love of the water. He taught several generations of family members how to stay safe in the water, as well as, how to swim and body surf. Rod spoke of his time as a camp counselor at Camp Seagull and enjoyed scuba diving with his Uncle John off the coast of North Carolina.

Rod's goal in life was to help people which is why he became a Radiologist. After he retired, he enjoyed giving lectures about the benefits of eating a low-carb diet and an overall healthy lifestyle through diet and exercise.

A memorial service for Rod was held Saturday, March 1, 2025 at 1:00 PM at the Chapel of Mitchell Funeral Home, 7209 Glenwood Avenue, Raleigh, North Carolina 27612.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Atlantic Beach Sea Turtle Project, by using the link below, under 'Donations'.

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