Robert Bernard "Bob" Williams

Robert "Bob" Bernard Williams, age 61, of Anderson, South Carolina (formerly of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania), passed away peacefully on July 2, 2025, after a courageous battle with Glioblastoma, surrounded by his loving family.
Born and raised in Easton, PA, Bob was a proud graduate of Notre Dame High School, where his love for football first took root. He went on to play at Penn State University - a team and school he supported for life - before fulfilling his dream of playing in the NFL with the Buffalo Bills, Seattle Seahawks, and Philadelphia Eagles. After his football career, Bob brought the same drive and dedication to his 20 years of work at Powdersize, where he made lasting friendships and contributions.
Bob spent most of his life in Pennsylvania before moving to Anderson, South Carolina five years ago to pursue a new life adventure with his family. Saturdays in the fall were sacred to Dad-he never missed a Penn State football game, proudly wearing his blue and white and cheering as if he were right there in the stands. But even more important to him than college football was showing up for his kids. Whether he was standing on the sidelines with a smile or coaching from the bench, he was always there-present, encouraging, and proud. For eight unforgettable years, Dad dedicated his time and heart to coaching youth sports, where he left a lasting mark on every child he mentored. His influence extended far beyond the field, shaping young hearts and leading a legacy of kindness, strength and impact that will never be forgotten.
Dad was famously stubborn-in the best way. Once he believed in something, there was no changing his mind, especially when it came to doing what was right for his family. For Dad, family was everything. He built his life around being there for the people he loved, and he showed us-through his actions more than his words-that love is about showing up, cheering loud, and being all in. We can't forget how he especially loved Christmas, and his joy during the holiday season was unmatched. He was known as our Santa C.
A man of deep faith, Bob loved God, his friends and his family above all else. His faith was his foundation-steady and unwavering-and it guided how he faced life's joys and challenges. Even in his hardest moments, especially during his illness, he never lost that trust in God. His belief wasn't loud, but it was powerful, and it left an imprint on all of us who were lucky enough to witness it.
Bob is survived by his beloved wife of almost 30 precious years come this October, Linda Vargo Williams; his daughters, Kimi and Kylie Williams; his sons, Craig and Cody Williams; his mother, Monica Williams; his brother, Russell Williams (Rich); his sister, Monica Williams (Cinda); and his sister, Mary Ann McFedridge (James); his brother-in-law, Wayne Young. He was preceded in death by his father, Russell Williams; and his brother and sister-in-law, Michael and Donna Williams; his sister, Judy Williams.
The family will receive friends at The McDougald Funeral Home from 6-8 pm on Friday, July 11, 2025. A celebration of Bob's life will be held at 11:30 am, Saturday, July 12, 2025 at St. Joseph Catholic Church with Father Philip Gillespie officiating. The service will be live streamed for those unable to attend. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Gardens.
A Celebration of Life service will be at Sacred Heart of Bethlehem in Pennsylvania on July 19, 2025. Guest may offer condolences to the family beginning at 10:00 am. A formal mass will be held at 11:00 am.
Bob's strength, faith, laughter, and love will remain with everyone whose lives he touched. He was a light to his family and a fighter to the end - and his legacy will live on in all who loved him.
Memorial contributions may be made to Caring House Cancer Center, 2625 Pickett Rd, Durham, NC 27705.