Robert Henry Williams, Jr.
OBITUARY
Robert Henry Williams Jr.
November 26, 1944- September 2, 2026
Robert Henry Williams Jr., affectionately known as “Rob,” went home to be with Jesus, on September 2, 2026, at the age of 81. Rob was born November 26, 1944, in Fairmont, West Virginia, to the late Robert Henry Williams Sr. and Corine (Marshall) Williams. Rob and his family later moved and made Allentown, Pennsylvania, their home. He attended Saint Augustine University in Raleigh, North Carolina, where he earned a degree in Social Work. During his college years, he became a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated, Kappa Epsilon Chapter, beginning a lifelong bond of brotherhood. Following his graduation from college, Rob moved to Washington D.C., where he married and began a family. From his first marriage, he was blessed with two children, Obanna Williams, and Keishla Williams. After returning to Allentown, Pennsylvania, he married Diane Ruch and welcomed, Kevin Grate, into his life as his stepson. Those who knew Rob, will remember him as a kind and loving man, and someone who loved to laugh. A true jokester, he brought humor and joy to those around him. He had a warm, unforgettable smile that could light up a room, and his laughter and sense of humor will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Rob built a life centered around family, friendship, and laughter. He was lovingly called, “The Mayor of Allentown” because he had the gift of gab and everyone quickly became Rob’s friend. Rob will be deeply missed, but his bright smile, laughter, and the wonderful memories he created with those he loved will live on.
Rob is survived by his wife, Diane Ruch; children Keishla Williams and Obanna Williams and his wife, Miriam; and stepson, Kevin Grate. Rob is also survived by his brothers, Donald Williams and Michael Williams. He also leaves to cherish his memory his grandchildren, James Brown, LaQuanna Brandon, and Trayevon Johnson; great grandchildren Zyaire and Khari Brown, Dallas Floyd, Lux Brandon, and many nieces, nephews, and extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Henry Williams, Sr. and Corine (Marshall) Williams, and siblings: Beverly Williams, Kirk Williams, and Allan Williams.
A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, September 15, 2026 at 11 A.M. at the J.S. Burkholder Funeral Home, 16th and Hamilton Sts. Allentown. A calling hour will be held on Tuesday, from 10 A.M. to 11 A.M. in the funeral home. Condolences may be offered at: www.jsburkholder.com
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America in Rob’s memory.