Dr. Randal "Randy" Williams

1944 - 2024

Dr. Randal "Randy" Williams

April 5, 1944 - December 13, 2024

Dr. Randal "Randy" Williams of Hickory, NC, passed away at the age of 80 on Friday, December 13, 2024, in the comfort of his own home, surrounded by family and his dedicated caretakers.

Randy was born in Aurora, IL, on April 5, 1944, to the late Gerald and Elaine Williams. He grew up in Fort Myers, FL, where he attended and graduated as a junior from Fort Myers High School. After high school, Randy pursued his pre-med education at Stetson University in Deland, FL. He graduated with honors, majoring in biochemistry, but his greatest accomplishment while attending Stetson was meeting and marrying his wife, Barbara, of 59 years.

Randy went on to Duke University Medical School, where he earned his medical degree, completed his residency, and received his surgical training in the specialty of ophthalmology. He also served as a Fellow in Biochemistry and Ophthalmology, demonstrating his dedication to advancing medical knowledge. During the Vietnam War, Randy served his country as a Lieutenant in the United States Navy. He spent four years as an investigator in the Navy's Biophysics Division at the Naval Research Institute in Maryland.

After practicing ophthalmology briefly in Chapel Hill, NC, Randy moved to Hickory in 1977 to join Dr. William Harris, Dr. Hamp Lefler, and Dr. Thomas Foster as a partner at Graystone Ophthalmology Associates. During his 40 year career in Hickory, Randy was privileged to provide state of the art medical and surgical eye care to countless patients in our community. Under his tenure, Graystone gradually expanded to a 14 physician, multi location practice offering quality eye care to the greater Piedmont communities.

Beyond his medical career, Randy had a deep appreciation for the arts. He was an avid collector of fine art and a devoted patron of the opera and symphonies. Randy's passion for cultural experiences led him to travel frequently to New York City, NY, where he and Barbara enjoyed attending world-class performances and exhibitions. His love for the arts enriched his life and inspired those around him to see the beauty in creative expression.

Randy will also be remembered for his generosity, quick wit, and the playful way he interacted with those around him. He had a remarkable ability to bring joy and laughter to even the most challenging situations. Known for giving his nurses a hard time, Randy's teasing often left people guessing whether he was serious or joking, thanks to his dry sense of humor. His one-of-a-kind humor and kindness were as much a part of his legacy as his professional accomplishments.

Randy is survived by his wife, Barbara; and their four children, Kimberly (Jon) Neumann, Keith (Michele) Williams, Kristin (Gary) Blake, and Kelly Williams. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, Hannah (Christian) Meyer, Tess Neumann, Jake Williams, Owen Williams, Gavin Blake, Evelyn Blake, and Emerson Blake; as well as a great-grandson, Baker Meyer. Randy is also survived by his two sisters, Dana (Gene) Angel and Terry (Mitch) Kania; his brother, Dr. Todd (Suzanne) Williams; and nieces and nephews, Jay Williams, Laurie Marcey, Jack Williams, Stacey Dickey, Kristi Sund, Paul Kania, Matthew Fagan, Sean Fagan and Ryan Fagan.

Randy will be remembered for his profound impact on the medical community, his unwavering love for his family, and his commitment to serving others. His legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched through his work, generosity, and passion for the arts.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research in honor of Randy's legacy.