Dr. Francis Walter Williams, 73, passed away March 4, 2016 at home after a long illness.
He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Karen, his son, Christopher, his daughter Laura Peters; and many close friends who were like family to him, especially the Chaplin children: Jamie (Steffany), John, Jeffrey and Colleen.
Born and raised in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, the son of Laster and Jessie Williams, he moved from North Carolina to Arizona with his wife, then to Maryland and finally settled in Manassas in 1978 where he would spend the next 38 years.
As he moved through childhood and adolescence, his academic prowess would emerge as he earned numerous awards and commendations. A well-rounded student, he was an Eagle Scout, President of his Senior Class, a member of the National Honor Society, and a member of the debate team.
Dr. Williams earned his bachelor’s degree and PhD (Electrical Engineering) from North Carolina State University where he was a member of the Phi Beta Kappa Society. He later joined the U.S. Army, earning the rank of Captain. After serving with the Army, he joined the U.S. Department of Defense, working as a civilian until retirement in 1998.
Described as “the great mediator” by some of his colleagues, Dr. Williams was an astute academic and professional, building bridges to help achieve common goals. A quiet, thoughtful, inquisitive and analytical man with a busy mind, he observed the world around him with compassion and acted with the highest integrity. He believed deeply in the honor and responsibilities of civil service.
As the years passed and his body became less robust, his mind remained active and sharp. He continued to playfully tease his wife about the expanse of her fabric collection and her would-be pet squirrels. He followed the political landscape closely, was a dedicated watcher of intelligent television and film dramas, and a lifelong fan of the Washington Redskins. He also spent many years cultivating a sophisticated palate for BBQ sauce, though Western North Carolina varieties always remained his favorite – especially his own special recipe. His quiet, steadfast presence will be deeply missed.

The family will receive friends Saturday, March 12, 2016 from 1:00pm-2:00pm at Baker-Post Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 10001 Nokesville Road, Manassas, VA. A memorial Service will follow at 2:00pm in the Funeral Home Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to The American Cancer Society (cancer.org), The American Heart Association (heart.org) or The American Diabetes Association (diabetes.org)

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