Roger Griswold Williams ’57

Roger Griswold Williams passed away September 11, 2021, at 86 years old. He was born November 28, 1934 in Jacksonville, FL to Alexander Gregory Williams, II and Cornelia Leonard Nevins.

Daddy Rog, as he was so affectionately known, is survived by his beautiful wife of 63 years, Joanna Johnson Williams; his two children, Robert Williams of Oviedo, FL and Margaretta (Margo) Williams of Bradenton, FL; his sister, Nancy Gorman of Monument, CO; his grandchildren, Alex and Mark Williams (children of Robert), Jason and Daniel Halpern and Noah Font (children of Margo); he was also proud great-grandpa to four great-grandchildren.

Roger was loved by all who met him and was often referred to as “the nicest man I have ever had the pleasure of knowing”. He was a member of the Bradenton Yacht Club and active with many organizations in Bradenton including Manatee Historical Society, Reflections of Manatee, Crosswait Fishing Tournament, International Fly Fishers Healing Waters Veterans Outreach, Mangrove Coast Fly Fishers and Braden River High School Booster Club. “Pop Rog” loved to spend Friday Nights watching his youngest grandson, Noah, play football and could always be found helping to serve dinner to the players before the games.

He was so proud of his grandchildren and never missed the opportunity to attend their events from Manatee High School chorus concerts and JROTC events, to military Commissioning Ceremonies, to the many sporting events the boys participated in. He was a member of the First Church of Christ Scientist, Boston Massachusetts. Roger attended Davidson College in Davidson, NC, received his Bachelors from Stetson University in 1958 and his Masters from University of Georgia in 1964.

He was a Life Loyal Sigma Chi and an enthusiastic Georgia Bulldogs Football fan. Daddy Rog’s passing has left a hole in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. This world was a brighter place because of his infectious smile and loving personality. He will be truly missed.

A Celebration of Roger’s life and friendships will be held from 2-5PM on Saturday, October 2, 2021at the Bradenton Yacht Club. All who knew and loved him are invited to stop by and share their favorite stories and memories.

Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & crematory 43rd Street Chapel is in charge of the arrangements. Condolences may be made to www.brownandsonsfuneral.com.

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