Robert Thomas Williams

In loving memory of Robert (Bob) Thomas Williams Jr, age 93, who peacefully passed away in his home on July 19, 2023, with his eldest daughter by his side. He was a cherished resident of Tampa, Florida and had previously spent 22 wonderful years in McKinney, Texas.

Born on September 28, 1929, in Jamaica, Queens, New York, Bob was the son of Robert Sr. and Elizabeth Williams. As a young boy, he spent eight formative years in Venezuela, receiving his education through home schooling. He returned to New York and attended St. Peter’s Boys High School in Staten Island. Bob later attended Manhattan College, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering. He then enlisted in the United States Navy as a Lieutenant Junior Grade, completing Degaussing School, and dedicated four years to his service.

During his naval tenure, Bob met the love of his life, Barbara R. Williams, a member of the Navy Nurse Corps. They fell deeply in love and were united in marriage on February 13, 1954, at the Naval Base in Newport, Rhode Island. Following his service, Bob joined General Electric for two years before starting a distinguished 32-year career with Exxon Shipping. His work took him to various seaports across the nation, including Port Newark-Elizabeth Marine Terminal, Port of Baltimore Harbor, Port of San Francisco and the Port of Houston, where Exxon Shipping was headquartered. After retirement, he took part in logistical and procurement work during the Exxon Valdez oil spill, a role he took great pride in. Bob was blessed to have a retirement that exceeded the length of his working years.

A devout member of St. Gabriel’s Catholic Church in McKinney, Texas, Bob actively served as a Eucharistic Minister, bringing communion to nearby assisted living facilities. He and Barbara regularly volunteered at Martha’s Kitchen, offering meals and solace to those in need. He had a strong Catholic faith and his dedication to family was evident throughout his life. He made a point to bring family together for annual reunions where he instilled the importance of family bonds and relationships. Bob loved to golf, frequently enjoying rounds with close friends in Kingwood and McKinney. Renowned for his signature “Bob-isms,” which showcased his sense of humor, he endeared himself to many close friends over the years. Together with Barbara, he explored the world through cruises and travel, embracing experiences in Europe, Asia, Australia, New Zealand and South America.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents Elizabeth (Betty) Conboy and Robert Williams Sr. as well as his beloved wife, Barbara R. Williams, and his son-in-law, Henry L. Colbert, two sisters, Lillian Prouty and Gabriel Robert Williams O.S.F.

Bob is survived by his four children: Kathleen Colbert, Karen Castellanos (Jose), Thomas Williams (Natalie) and Michael Williams (Stacey). Additionally, he leaves behind 13 grandchildren: Andrew Williams, Ryan VanOlst (Amber), Alec Williams, Taylor Williams, Daniel Castellanos, Robert Castellanos, Diana Castellanos, Erica Patapoff (Jacob), Lindsay Arellano (Isaac), Adam Williams (Debby), Logan Williams, Megan Williams, Neal Berry (Melissa), as well as his four great-grandchildren: Nolan and Lincoln Berry, Isla Arellano and Milo VanOlst.

A military burial service for both Bob and Barbara will occur at a later date at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens in Fort Pierce, Florida.

The family of Bob Williams would like to express sincere gratitude to Nurses Donna and Hope as well as all the staff at The Inn at Aston Gardens and Dr. Berland, MD, Nurse Carrie and Lori.

A Memorial Mass will be held on Friday, August 11, 2023 at 10:00 AM at Incarnation Catholic Church.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to a Catholic Relief Services.