Richard L. Williams, 50, Was Native of Oak Bluffs

Richard L. Williams, born in Oak Bluffs on May 28, 1954, died unexpectedly on July 29 at his home in Oak Bluffs. He was 50 years old.

He was the son of the late Frank H. Williams of San Luis Obispo, Calif., and Alice T. Williams of Edgartown. He was a graduate of the Martha's Vineyard Regional High School and attended The Wentworth Institute for land surveying. He worked for a number of years as a surveyor on as well as off the Island.

Richard was well known to the Island for his craftsmanship. He was a carpenter who used his artistic skill and applied it to every job. In addition to gardening and fishing, his hobbies also included airbrushing and shooting pool with his good friend, Sandy Fisher.

Richard was a wonderful person who left so much laughter and love in the hearts of every soul he touched. He was an amazing father who taught his children every skill he knew; he wanted his children to learn the many important values of life so they could achieve their highest goals for their future. He lived his life entirely for his children and he left their hearts filled with love.

He was the loving father of five beautiful children, Tabitha Devine, Felicia, Richard Jr. and his young twins, Jocelyn and Nicole. His minor children will be cared for by their loving mother, Nancy Gibson of Oak Bluffs.

In addition to his mother and children, Richard is survived by his former wife, Mary A. Rowland (Moye) of Newton; his sister, Kathy Spiro, and her husband, Phillip, of Oak Bluffs and three brothers, Gary Williams and his wife, Amy, of Edgartown, Woody Williams and his wife, Phyllis, of Tisbury, and Frank Williams of Edgartown; his son in law, Kevin Devine; three grandchildren, LaNeisha, Anthony and Derrick; seven nieces, Gina, Maria, Vanessa, Caitlin, Pamela, Melissa and Rachael, and six nephews, Gary Jr., P.J, Brian, Frank Jr., Matthew and T.J. In addition to his Family Richard leaves behind many wonderful friends who not only gave him the gift of friendship, they gave him the gift of brotherhood. He will be missed greatly by all who knew him and loved him.

A celebration of his life will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, August 7, at the Oak Grove Cemetery in Oak Bluffs. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Williams Family Education Trust in care of Dukes County Savings Bank, P.O. Box 1069, Edgartown MA 02539. Arrangements are by the Chapman, Cole and Gleason Funeral Home in Oak Bluffs.