TAPS: CDR Robert Gary Williams, USN-Ret

11 May 11, 2017. CDR Robert Gary Williams, USN-Ret., 65, at Fort Worth, Texas.

Mike Williams, of Winchester, VA, passed along the sad news that we have lost one of our own. Robert (Bob) G. Williamsdied unexpectedly three weeks ago from a sudden illness in Fort Worth, Texas.

Robert was born in El Salvador in 1951 to Robert and Betty Karleen Williams. After growing up in New Orleans, La., and Morristown, N.J., he graduated from Morristown High School. He went on to study at Earlham College in Richmond, Ind., and graduated from the University of Alabama with a degree in American Studies.

Robert joined the United States Navy as an intelligence officer in 1975, completing his Master's Program at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, Calif. His shore tours included duty on the N2 staff at CINCUSNAVEUR in the mid-80's, departing to become Assistant Naval Attaché in Madrid and later was on the staff at SOUTHCOM. Bob was fluent in Spanish.

In 1981, he married Damaris Migdalia Ortega, whom he met while stationed in Panama. He retired as a Commander in 1995. Robert went on to work in security and logistics for another twenty years. Friends remember that he was an avid traveler and enjoyed running, reading, and the arts. He will be remembered for his compassion, thoughtfulness, strong values and character. He was always ready to lend a helping hand.

Robert was preceded in death by his father, Robert Tuman Williams. Survivors include his wife, Damaris; daughter, Arlene Evans and her husband, Trey; daughter, Charlotte Williams; mother, Betty Karleen of Morristown, N.J.; sister, Carol of Morris Plains, N.J.; extended family in Panama; and numerous nieces, nephews and loved ones. A memorial service celebrating his life was held on May 22 at All Saints' Episcopal Church, 5001 Crestline Road, Fort Worth. Gifts in his memory may be made to All Saints' Episcopal Church.

- Vic