Husband, Father, Grandfather, Outstanding Athlete, US Marine, World War Two Veteran, Professional Baseball Player (Pittsburgh Pirates), Outstanding Family Leader and Role Model ---Robert Tennant (Bob) Williams, Sr, 88, of Narrows, Virginia, was called home on Saturday, September 27, 2014 surrounded by his family.

Bob was born November 21st, 1925, in Cumberland, Maryland. He grew up and attended elementary school in New York City. Upon returning to Cumberland, he quarterbacked the Allegany High School football team, coached by Herman Ball, to an undefeated season and was named to the All City football team. After graduation, he was signed as a 17 year old prospect by the Pittsburgh Pirates, however, his career was interrupted by World War II. He served in the United States Marine Corps during this time and after being discharged from the service he resumed his baseball career and played 4 years in the Pirates farm chain. Bob also attended Villanova and Maryland Universities. Bob was a member of the Elks Club in Cumberland and Princeton W. Va., the Ali Ghan Shrine Club in Cumberland as well as the Kiwanis Club of Narrows who dedicated the 1999 Homecoming festival in his honor.

On August 1st, 1953, he married Doris Jane Davis. To this union were three children: Leslie, Barbara and Bobby Jr. Starting their lives in Cumberland, Maryland, Bob and Doris later moved their family to Narrows, Virginia as he accomplished a leadership career of 35 years at Celanese Corporation. After retirement he enjoyed playing golf with friends and family, traveling and visiting his children and grandchildren. An organizer and manager of the annual family beach and golf trip, he often said that the most fun he had every year was when he was surrounded by his whole family for a week at the beach.

Bob was an active member of the Narrows Presbyterian Church for many years. He was an Elder and served over 20 years as Clerk of Session. After his service as Clerk of Session, he was elected to the position of honor of Clerk Emeritus. He was the definition and example of what members of the "Greatest Generation" are known for... .Family, Church and community leadership, a history of Service above self and a strong work ethic.

Bob is survived by his wife of 61 years, Doris Williams of Narrows, Virginia, his children Leslie (Rich) Claiborne of Holly Springs, North Carolina, Barbara (Jeff) English of San Antonio, Texas, Robert Tennant (Diane) Williams, Jr. of Roanoke, Virginia and by 6 grandchildren: Jackie (Todd) Knode Walling, Christina Knode, Lauren Williams, Justin Williams, Brandon English and Jason English.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his granddaughter Erika Knode; 1sister, Kathryn Taylor and 1 brother, Bill Williams.

The family would like to thank Dr. Paul Olson and the staff at Giles Memorial Hospital for all the kindness shown to our father during his stay with them.

A Service of Witness to the Resurrection will be held at Narrows Presbyterian Church, Narrows, Virginia Wednesday, October 1 at 1:00 PM with Reverend Shirley Larson officiating. Interment will follow at Birchlawn Burial Park in Pearisburg, Virginia. The family will visit with friends on Tuesday, September 30th from 6pm to 8pm at Riffe's Funeral Service in Narrows.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to Narrows Presbyterian Church, 702 Memorial Blvd., Narrows, Virginia 24124

The family is being served by Riffe's Funeral Service in Narrows, (540) 726-2442, and online at riffefuneralservice.com.

Visitation

September 30, 2014
6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Riffe's Funeral Service 600 Main Street
Narrows, VA
(540) 726-2442

Funeral Service

October 01, 2014
1:00 PM

First Presbyterian Church 702 Memorial Boulevard
Narrows, VA

Interment

Birchlawn Burial Park 177 Birchlawn Circle
Pearisburg, VA