Richard Charles Williamson, 78, of Ocilla, Georgia, went to be with the Lord Saturday, July 15. Born to Charles and Ada (Carpenter) Williamson August 26, 1938 in Sturgis, Michigan Richard grew up on a small farm in Bronson, Michigan. A 1956 graduate of Bronson High School, Richard was an athlete, actor, and active member of 4-H. Upon graduating high school, Richard continued his education at William Jennings Bryan College in Dayton, Tennessee where he was awarded a Bachelor’s of Science in Biology in 1960. While a student at Bryan he earned varsity letters in basketball and baseball, served on the student council, and met the love of his life, Faith Allem, whom he married in 1959.
After graduation from Bryan, Mr. Williamson began a long career in secondary education. He taught biology, coached men’s and women’s basketball, football, and served as the assistant principal at Rhea County High School for ten years. In 1970 Richard moved to south Georgia becoming the Assistant Principal of Tift County High and one year later moving to Ocilla, Ga to serve the Irwin County School System. Mr. Williamson served the families of Irwin County as Head Principal of Irwin County High School for 7 years and Assistant Superintendent of schools for 18 years. Richard was also a lifelong student. He earned a Masters of Educational Administration from Middle Tennessee State in 1970, numerous certifications in biological studies from Tennessee Tech and Clemson University, and was awarded a 6-year degree in 1985 from the University of Georgia. Mr. Williamson was an innovative educator who instilled high principles and delighted in seeing all people have success.
Richard is survived by his wife of 58 years, Faith Allem Williamson of Ocilla; 4 children: Naomi Scott of Knoxville, TN, Michael (Julie) Williamson of Tifton, GA, Cindy (Jerry) Walker of Papua New Guinea, and Steven (Melissa) Williamson of Carrollton, TX; 9 grandchildren: Michelle, Adam, Ashley, Nathan (Melinda), Ryan, Leslie, Davis, Micah, and Tara; and one great-grandson, Camden. He is also survived by brother Jim (Susan) Williamson and sister Lila Williamson and preceded in death by his sister June Satchfield.
In 1999 he joined The Gideons International and served faithfully in Bible distributions, camp meetings, and prison ministry. His and the family’s wish is in lieu of flowers that gifts be made to The Ben Hill Irwin Gideons (P.O. Box 752, Fitzgerald, GA 31750).
Richard could catch any fish, grow any flower, and love any person. He will be fondly remembered for all three but particularly for his love of Jesus and His people.
Visitation will be Tuesday, July 18 from 6 p.m.-8 p.m. at Paulk Funeral Home in Ocilla.
Service will be held Wednesday, July 19 at 11 a.m. at Big Creek Church in Irwinville with graveside to follow.