Roberto Jose "Bobby" Guardia Williamson

Roberto Jose Guardia Williamson-affectionately known as Bobby, Dear, Dad, and Toto-passed away on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at the age of 71. He was a man defined by a brilliant mind, adventurous spirit, and a heart rooted in the Catholic faith who was surrounded by love until the very end.

Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, to Jose Guillermo Guardia and Mary Ann Williamson, Roberto was raised in Panama City, Panama. He pursued his education at the University of Illinois, earning both a Bachelor and Master of Science in Civil Engineering specializing in Geotechnical Engineering.

On June 5, 1982, he married his "darling, beautiful wife, the love of my life" Marisa Julia Guardia, in Panama City. He and Marisa raised four children, two boys and two girls. Together, they built a life across continents, eventually moving their family of six to Seattle, Washington. There, Roberto began a distinguished 35-year tenure with Shannon & Wilson, Inc (S&W). He relished solving complex problems and treasured the colleagues who became lifelong friends. In 2006, his career relocated his family to Florida, where he established the southeast S&W office in Jacksonville. A memorable highlight of his career was connecting S&W with transportation and environmental projects in both Central and South America.

Roberto and Marisa were world travelers, exploring Italy, Spain, France, and Latin America. Marisa recalls that they truly took advantage of every single minute of their journeys. Whether it was catching a late-night show or grabbing a drink in a tucked-away café, they lived for the shared thrill of discovery. For Roberto, the adventure was never just about the destination; it was about the joy of exploring by Marisa's side. Over the years, his favorite trips were those taken to visit his children and grandchildren in Seattle, Raleigh, and Fort Lauderdale, or returning home to Panama to be with his eight siblings, including his twin brother.

Roberto was a curious soul who enjoyed learning. After moving to Florida, he learned golf. John, his son, recalls no matter how the game went, Roberto always remarked, "I had fun." After experiencing the joy of riding William's (son) road bicycle at the age of 61, he jumped right into road cycling joining the North Coast Bicycle Group. Cycling allowed Roberto to experience the world from a new point of view, brought him back to his youth and connected him to new friends. He participated in annual rides to raise awareness and donations for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Later in life he fell in love with French culture (food, traveling, petanque, cycling, and language) eventually becoming a dedicated board member of the Alliance Française de Jacksonville and participating in a French exchange program. At his core, Roberto was a master of foundations, turning strangers into friends through shared experiences and a kind word.

Above all else, Roberto's life was anchored by Catholic faith. A member of the Our Lady Star of the Sea CRHP men's group, his faith was the lighthouse behind everything he did. Most weekends involved gathering together as a family for Catholic mass and quality family connection time afterwards.

When asked what life lesson he hoped he taught his children, Roberto thought for a moment and offered a simple, yet profound lesson: "Just be kind." To Roberto, kindness was more than a gesture; it is the way one walks with Jesus. He held steadfast during his illness, remaining a man of deep gratitude. He awoke every day with a gracious heart and a reliance on God's grace and guiding hands.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Marisa Julia Guardia; his children, Angelica Maria Guardia (Brandon Shane Davis), Anna Loren Guardia (Jack Nicklaus Mannon), John Jose Guardia, and William Herbert Guardia (Sarah Keller); and his cherished grandchildren, Everett James Mannon, Harrison Grey Mannon, and Sophia Ava Davis.

A funeral Mass will be held at St. John Paul II Catholic Church on Saturday, January 31st, at 11:00 AM. Interment will follow at 3:00 PM at Ponte Vedra Valley Funeral Home and Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to National Brain Tumor Society in Roberto's honor.