- Date Of Birth: July 17, 1937
- Date Of Death: July 12, 2018
- State: Michigan
Ronald Ray Williams, age 80, passed away on Thursday, July 12, 2018 in Kalamazoo. He was born on July 17, 1937 in Galatia, IL the only child of the late Delbert and Dolores (Garrison) Williams.
Ron graduated with a master’s degree in special education from Southern Illinois University. He dedicated his life to building programs that ensure students in Kalamazoo County had every opportunity to realize their personal potential. From 1962 thru 1991 Ron worked as the assistant director and ultimately the director of Kalamazoo RESA’s Youth Opportunities Unlimited (Y.O.U.), a program that assists young job seekers in finding employment, completing their education and becoming self-sufficient citizens. In recognition of his extraordinary dedication, passion and leadership the Kalamazoo RESA Foundation established an endowed scholarship for YOU students in his name.
In retirement, Ron was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather with a keen interest in the outdoors. In 2006, he started construction of a genuine covered bridge on his property. This family outdoor project grew to an accompanying picnic pavilion and games area. The Williams Bridge has hosted countless family celebrations leaving all with treasured memories.
On July 2, 1960, Ron married the former Doris L. Wall, who survives. Also surviving are three children, Sandra (David) Smith of Maryland, Susan (Michael) Smith of Chicago and Theron (Alissa) Williams of Kalamazoo; four grandchildren, Charis Smith, Spencer Smith, Justin (Kourtney) Werner and Brandon Werner; sister-in-law, Donna Randalls; and several nieces and nephews.
