Cary Rayford Williams

1943 - 2018

Cary Rayford Williams 74 years old, passed away on May 31 2018. Cary was born to Ray and Virginia Harrison Williams on December 19, 1943, in Jarratt, Virginia. His twin, Gary arrived a few minutes later. Cary has always been proud of his Harrison linage. In 1966, he married his true love Mary Frances. She taught school while he attended and graduated from Virginia Tech. He worked in structural steel construction of bridges, towers and buildings. He also was employed with Interstate highway building. He became a Professional Engineer and worked for the Department of Defense and was involved with installation maintenance and construction. During his federal career, he was posted to Germany (1989-91) where he experienced the opening of the Eastern bloc after the Berlin Wall fell. He was a volunteer Scouter since 1974 enjoying many treks on the Appalachian Trail, camping and teaching boy scout skills and was proud to see both his sons attain Eagle Scout while also having fun with the hikes and badge work. He was proud of his boys and their love of family. He enjoyed traveling; especially with Mary Frances visiting many interesting places in 13 countries in Europe, Scandinavia, Russia and 49 states. He especially enjoyed following the route of Lewis and Clark. A long time member of Chestnut Memorial United Methodist Church he served the Lord in many ways. Among the most rewarding was a being a greeter and caregiving as a Stephen’s Minister. In addition to his volunteer work with scouts and church, he also delivered Meals on Wheels. Cary is survived by his wife of 50+ years, Mary Frances, son Mason, his wife Shondra and four grandsons, Christopher, Cameron, Chase, Caelan in Newport News, his son West in Charlottesville Va., a twin brother Gary Williams in Waverly Va., sister-in-law Judy Williams in Marietta, GA, sister-in-law Dorothy Datto (Phil) in Scranton, PA, two nieces, and three nephews. His brother Harrison pre-deceased him. A visitation for friends and family will be held on Friday June 8 from 6-8:30 pm at Chestnut Memorial United Methodist church. Graveside interment will be on Saturday June 9 at the Peninsula Memorial Park at 1:30pm following will be the Memorial service at 2:30pm at Chestnut Memorial United Methodist church. In lieu of flowers donations can made to Chestnut Memorial United Methodist church and Boy Scout troop 11. Arrangements are in the care of Peninsula Funeral Home.