Arthur Ross Williams

Arthur “Art” Ross Williams was born June 11, 1946, in Dayton, Ohio, son of Russell “Bud” Williams and Violet Ross, passed away Friday, April 22, 2022. He is survived by his wife: Phoebe Dauz Williams of 49 years and children: Arthur Ross Williams Jr, Diane Dauz Williams (spouse: Randy Harrell), David Dauz Williams (spouse: Allison Williams) and five grandchildren: Bodhee Williams (12), Reece Williams (11), Luke Williams (11), Ava Williams (7), Everleigh Harrell (6). Art has three brothers: Arnold Williams (twin), Russell Williams, John Williams, and sister: Violet Everhart (deceased).

In 1968, Art graduated from Wright State University cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in History and Political Science. In 1969, he was drafted into the Army while working as an assistant city manager in Dayton, Ohio. In the Army, he served as an administrative specialist to the Commanding General in the United States Army Engineers in Vietnam. He received two awards of the Army Commendation Medal during an eight-month tour. While both on Fulbright scholarships, he met Phoebe in 1972 studying at the University of Pittsburgh earning master’s degrees in Economics and Public Administration, and Phoebe earning her PhD in Nursing. In 1980, he earned his PhD in Economics at Cornell University and certificates in Epidemiology and Health Care Management.

Art’s life was committed to academia and research. He taught and mentored countless students over his 40+ years in academia. He authored hundreds of publications and was awarded numerous research grants and accolades. Art and Phoebe shared research interests in the care and well-being of children, particularly those affected by cancer, and were often able to collaborate. They developed the Therapy-Related Symptom Checklist for Children (TRSC-C) as a symptom assessment tool in children receiving chemotherapy, which is used worldwide. He also served in the Missouri Association of Social Welfare and always had empathy to those who were less fortunate.

Beyond his many career accomplishments, Art will be best remembered as a caring husband, dad, and grandfather. He enjoyed learning, reading, classical music, stamp collecting, playing chess, and most of all - spending time with family. His love and devotion to family will not be forgotten. He is deeply missed and forever loved.

His celebration of life will be held 11:00am Saturday, May 21, 2022 at the Wesley Covenant Chapel at the Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, KS.