Robert Malcolm Williams

Robert Malcolm Williams (Bob) passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 16 in Port Richey, FL at the age of 97. He was born in 1927 at his home in Foxdale, PA to Earl J. Williams and Isabelle C. (Fox) Williams. He resided in Port Richey for 37 years and was active in his local retirement community. He previously lived in Centerville, OH, North Plainfield, NJ and

Cumberland, MD.

Bob attended New Stanton, PA Junior High School and Greensburg, PA Senior High School.

Bob enlisted in the Navy during World War II at the age of 17. He trained and served as a Radarman assigned to light cruiser duty and achieved the rank of Petty Officer 2nd Class. His ports of call included stops in 10 countries. His duffel bag reads, "Foxdale Willy" Williams.

After his naval service Bob graduated from Slippery Rock College PA with a degree in Health and Education and later earned a Master of Education degree from Frostburg State College MD.

Bob's first job was with the Greensburg, PA YMCA as Physical Director and at the age of 26 was selected as its Executive Director-the youngest in the nation at that time. He spent the rest of his professional career in top executive YMCA positions in 4 different states and developed numerous innovative programs. Bob personified the YMCA's 3 pillars: mind, body and spirit.

Bob was a member of a number of community-oriented organizations, including the Jaycees and the Rotary Club; and partnered with the United Way for YMCA funding.

Bob was a multi-sport athlete, excelling in tennis, basketball, handball, racquet ball, track and swimming. He retired from competitive swimming in 2024 and for the past 25 years was a nationally ranked top 10 swimmer in his age group in the U.S. Masters Swimming program.

Bob's patriotism for country and dedication to the YMCA were exceeded only by his deep love and affection for his wives and family. He is predeceased by his wives, Eleanor L. (Blackburn) Williams and Bernice (Buni) (Young) Williams, and his sister, Diane (Williams) Thomas.

Bob has 4 sons, Douglas & wife Mary, Jeffrey & wife Ellen, Cristopher and Bradley; and 2 step children, Shana (Young) Hunt & husband Harvey and Garson Young & wife Tina.

The next 2 generations are: 4 grandchildren (Justin & wife Mandy, Jodi, Nicholas and Brandon & wife Heather); 2 step grandchildren (Amanda & husband Chris and Laura & husband Josh); 5 great grandchildren (Caden, Camryn, Zachary, Savannah and Elena Rae); and 3 step great grandchildren (Cooper, Olivia and Hunter). Bob also has 3 nephews and 2 nieces.

Bob was generous, donating to his church and many charities. He exercised and trained daily, enjoyed dancing and solving puzzles, and composed heart-warming poetry. He was a man of principle, strong will, intellect and good humor-with a very big heart. He taught his sons what was right and what was wrong and offered them simple but wise advice: be your own man.

At this time the family has elected for private services. Though Bob may no longer be with us, his spirit will live on through the memories made with family and friends.