Ronald C Williams Jr.

Ronald C. Williams, Jr., 61, passed away peacefully on August 19th at Connecticut Hospice in Branford, surrounded by his loving family. Born on February 18th, 1964, in New Haven, CT, Ron was the son of Frances Eveskcige Williams and Ronald Williams, Sr. Ron is survived by his best friend and devoted wife of more than 40 years, Cathy (Bashta) Williams, and their children: Ronald Williams III, Samantha Williams (Tyrell Martinez), Travis Williams, and Amber Williams (Hector Diaz). He was a proud and loving "Poppy" to his cherished grandchildren: Ava, Jaiden, and Olivia Martinez; Teddy and Emma Williams; and Isabella (Bella) and Hector Diaz Jr. He also leaves behind his siblings Barbara Yeager, Maureen (Scott) Watson, Lisa Purificato, and Sonia Williams (Michael Poirier); his in-laws Patricia Bashta, Michael Bashta, and John (Lee) Niziolek; as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family, all of whom he loved deeply. Ron was predeceased by his parents; his sisters Carol Kyler and Gretchen Flannigan; his uncles Stanley "Flea" and Joe Eveskcige; Jeannine Cromedy; and his grandmother Frances "Mas" Eveskcige. Family was everything to Ron, and he made sure everyone around him felt loved-often sending surprise gifts to his sisters and spoiling his grandchildren as often as possible. Ron dedicated 28 years of his life to Eder Brothers, where his strong work ethic and loyalty earned him the respect of coworkers and friends alike. He was a proud member of Teamsters Local 443 before his retirement, committed to the values of hard work, solidarity, and fairness for working families. A lifelong sports enthusiast, Ron cheered passionately for the Atlanta Braves, Dallas Cowboys, and UConn Huskies, and he enjoyed NASCAR-especially the fantasy league he played with family. He loved Sunday league softball, fishing, camping, vacationing with family, and any activity that brought him outdoors. He will be remembered for his big heart, his sense of humor, and the joy he found in life's simple moments. At every holiday table, family picnic, or Sunday gathering, Ron's presence will be felt in the laughter, the stories, and the love that binds his family together-just as he always wanted. Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, September 9th, from 6–8 p.m. at East Haven Memorial, 425 Main Street, East Haven, CT. Per Ron's wishes, there will be no formal funeral service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association at www.diabetes.org, in honor of Ron's life. The family invites relatives and friends to share memories, photos, and condolences below.