Richard Salisbury Williamson

1949 - 2013

Richard Salisbury Williamson

1949 - 2013

BORN

1949

DIED

2013

Richard Williamson Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Dec. 10, 2013.
CHICAGO (AP) - A former U.S. Senate candidate and diplomat described as one of the Illinois Republican Party's most influential minds has died of complications from a cerebral hemorrhage.

Richard Salisbury Williamson was 64. He died Sunday, according to a family friend, Alan Holmer, who was a Princeton classmate of Williamson's and former ambassador.

Williamson, a Chicago attorney and Kenilworth resident, was a longtime leader in the Illinois GOP, serving most recently as a member of the Republican National Committee for Illinois since 2010. Among his many political accomplishments, one of his best-known undertakings was a nationally watched Senate race against Carol Moseley Braun in 1992. The Chicago Democrat went on to be the first black woman elected to the U.S. Senate.

An Evanston native and Princeton graduate, Williamson was inspired to enter politics after watching his father serve as a local Republican precinct captain. He was chairman of the state Republican Party from 1999-2001.

Stuart Piper, a former executive director of the state Republican Party and a research director for the Republican National Committee, called Williamson "a friend to many" who was respected by leaders at an early age.

"His leadership skills were sought out by some of the best Republican officials and leaders for his knowledge and ability to provide advice to help solve the problems of the day, not only at the state level but nationally and internationally," Piper said.

Williamson served as a senior policy adviser for the presidential campaigns of John McCain and Mitt Romney.

In a statement, McCain called Williamson "an extraordinary American who devoted his life to public service and advancing human rights around the world."

"I always admired Rich's intellect and judgment, and sought his counsel often," McCain said.

Williamson was appointed to diplomatic roles under three Republican presidents, including as George W. Bush's special envoy to Sudan, where he worked to end genocide.

His biography on the Illinois GOP website described his "keen appreciation of American Exceptionalism and the responsibility that America has to serve as a 'shining city of the hill' for the entire world."

In July, he authored a report on genocide prevention with former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright. "As we know from our experience in government service, once the body counts begin to mount, our options for responding immediately become far less palatable politically," they wrote.

Williamson is survived by his wife, Jane, and three children, as well as grandchildren. He was remembered as a devoted family man.

New Trier Township Republican Committeeman Bill Cadigan recalled watching Williamson and an infant grandchild connect over a video chat last summer. "It was a delight to watch the joy it gave him," Cadigan said.

Illinois Republican Party Chair Jack Dorgan called Williamson a "true friend and a great diplomat."

"He loved his family, loved his country, and loved this party," Dorgan said.

___

KERRY LESTER, Associated Press


Copyright © 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

Sign Richard Williamson's Guest Book

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December 9, 2014

Annette (Barrett) Polk posted to the memorial.

February 18, 2014

Someone posted to the memorial.

December 18, 2013

Toby & Charles Gati posted to the memorial.

31 Entries

Annette (Barrett) Polk

December 9, 2014

Dear Jane & Children,

Rich had an amazing life. His dedication to his family & his passion for his life's work is unmatched. I worked with him in Congressman Crane's Office & he was a great boss, the best I have ever had, 2nd to none. I loved him & will remember him always & his impact on my life.

With deepest sympathies,
Annette, Bob & Jenna Polk

February 18, 2014

Dear Jane and family, I was fortunate enough to have Craig as my high school helper at Kenilworth Union. Craig was a wonderful reflection on you and Rich as parents and exemplary members of our community. Your loss is a loss for all of us. Fondly, Marie (Harris) Dentes

Toby & Charles Gati

December 18, 2013

Dear Jane and family -- We were honored to call Rich our friend. He was a wonderful person who knew what mattered in this world. He cared about people, not just causes, and he was never afraid to defend those who couldn't defend themselves.

With our deepest sympathy,
Toby and Charles Gati
Washington, DC

Alex McAlister

December 18, 2013

Jane, I've known Rich since first grade and he was truly a great friend and leader. Our thoughts and prayers will be with you and your family.

December 14, 2013

I AM SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS, JANIE AND CHILDREN...JERRY JOHNSON

Gail Shorr

December 13, 2013

We are so sad to hear of your loss of Mr. Williamson. It has been a long time since we have seen you, but remember you as a wonderful family.
Our condolences to you,
The staff of Pediatric Associates of the North Shore

Robert Sarofeen

December 12, 2013

I served with Amb. Williamson in Vienna and considered him to be an outstanding public servant and representative of the USA, a great family man, and a great human being. A great loss.

December 12, 2013

Very, very sorry to hear of the death of Rich. My prayers are for Jane and their family. Much love, Msgr. Peter J. Vaghi, classmate at University of Virginia Law School.

Edward Powers

December 11, 2013

I had the honor of serving with him in Vienna.
RIP Mr. Ambassador.

Robinson

December 11, 2013

Please accept my sympathy for your loss. During this time, may all be comforted by the wonderful promise: "And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes and death will be no more. Neither mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away."

Paul Fold

December 11, 2013

Dear Williamson Family - Amb Williamson was an inspiring leader, a brave man, and an outstanding patriot. Our nation, and we, mourn his loss. Paul Foldi and Bonnie Glick

December 11, 2013

I'm sorry for your lost. May your family rely on God in this time of grief.

Randy Meadows

December 11, 2013

What a great picture of Rich on this page! I remember Rich from our freshman wrestling team, where he was a terrific teammate and one of our best guys on the mat. He won the West Point Plebe tournament our freshman year, which was the biggest competition that freshman were eligible for.

He was a great example for anyone who came into contact with him..a great athlete, a conscientious student, and a friendly classmate. His body of work after Princeton speaks for itself.

My sincere condolences to Jane and the children.

December 11, 2013

Psalm 65:2

Susan Tarmy

December 11, 2013

Dear Jane,
What a shock! Rich and you were, and still remain, two of my favorite people. My UVA memories and those after will be in my heart always. I'm so sorry. Rich was a wonderful man. Love to you and the family.

December 11, 2013

Dear Mrs Williamson and Family, I was sad to hear of Mr. Rich'w passing. It was a privilege to know him and to cut his hair for the last 8 years. Please accept my sincere condolences. Our thoughts and prayers will be with you and your family.
Karol
Jerry's Barbershop Wilmette

December 11, 2013

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Dwayne Bickham

December 11, 2013

in God's care rest in peace

December 10, 2013

My heat goes out to all the family,*I survived a brain aneurysm in 05. marianne39506@hm.

December 10, 2013

My sincere condolences to the family. May you fiind comfort from the peace of God during this time of distress and in the days ahead-Phillipians 4:6, 7. E.D. Park Forest, IL.

Carl Kelly

December 10, 2013

We are deeply sorry for your family and all the Williamson Clan. We can express Great Joy to know Mr. Williamson's life was devoted to family and a deep love for his work to usher inprovements in the Sudan. He has to be very close to His maker. Rest In Peace Richard. The Kelly's Ocala, Florida

December 10, 2013

Please accept my sincere condolences. One can never be prepared for the
empty void that's left when a loved one dies. Our Creator promises to give
us strength and comfort in prayer, and in one another{Jeremiah 29:12,13
"And you will certainly call me and come and prayto me, and I will
listen to you."} Know that God cares.

Bankston

December 10, 2013

Dear family we are sorry for your loss.Draw close to God in the days ahead-James 4:8.

Destinee Stowers

December 10, 2013

Im am so sorry for your lost..but there will b a time when you will be a ble to see your loved ones again...Matthew 24:14

Reed

December 10, 2013

My deepest condolences to Mr Williamson family. May God strengthen you at this difficult time.

Eugene

December 10, 2013

Dear Williamson Family: I am truly sorry for your loss. May you draw comfort from knowing that Richard is indeed precious in God's eyes. (Psalm 72:14)

Pamela Strong

December 10, 2013

"A good name is better than good oil" says Ecclesiastes 7:1. Richard Williamson left a good name and a good reputation behind. He will be remembered.

Dan Cheely

December 10, 2013

Jane,

My prayers and love are with you in this untimely and great loss. With all of his great accomplishments, you and the kids always remained the greatest love of his life! You were his inspiration. Much love to you, Jane.

DStallings

December 10, 2013

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

December 10, 2013

Psalm 147:3

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Sign Richard Williamson's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

December 9, 2014

Annette (Barrett) Polk posted to the memorial.

February 18, 2014

Someone posted to the memorial.

December 18, 2013

Toby & Charles Gati posted to the memorial.