Mr. Robert Williams passed away on May 20, surrounded by his family. Rob was born February 23, 1932 to the union of Willie and Bessie (Steward) Williams. Both preceded him in death. Rob`s formal education was in Cairo, Illinois where he completed elementary and high school. After high school Rob enlisted in the United States Navy traveling all over the world as a Bosun`s Mate for six years, receiving an honorable discharge. After serving Rob moved to New York and attended college for Thermographics and later became employed by International Thermographers of New York retiring after 38 years of service.
To be near family Rob relocated to South Bend where his dream of having his own business became alive in August of 1984 when he opened Franny`s Restaurant along with Francine Walls-Forrest as one of the first African American Businesses in downtown South Bend. Rob and Franny served the South Bend community for 16 years, known for their legendary Ribs and Soul Food.
In Rob`s spare time he loved listening to jazz, golfing and especially talking on his CB and was known to his CB buddies as “Sugarman”. The added joy to his life was his granddaughter Alexzandria Parker whom he called “Red” and loved dearly. Rob was a longtime member of ST. Alphonus “Rock” Liguori Catholic Church of St. Louis MO.
Rob leaves to cherish a lifetime of memories his son Melvin Roy Williams Bronx, NY. Siblings Wallace Williams Sr. Los Angeles, CA, Robert Williams Chicago, IL Geneva Rowe of Las Vegas NV, Terry Williams of St. Louis MO, Wayne Williams AR, and Donald Williams, Cairo IL. His girls Felicia, Fhonda, and Fayonna, granddaughter Alexzandria Parker, special nephews Tony Ford and Wallace Williams Jr. all of South Bend. Goddaughter Melissa Nicks Indianapolis, IN. Special Niece Gwen Shaw of Dallas TX. Along with a host of family and friends. Proceeded him in death his son Michael R. Williams, his siblings, identical twins Roy Williams, Lucille Greer, Martha Glover Rev. Willie Williams, Willard Williams, Eddie Williams and Eva Williams. Rob will be truly missed by all who knew him.
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