Robert L. Williams

It is with profound sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Robert L. Williams, affectionately known as Bobby, who left us far too soon on April 6th, at his home in Salisbury. Born on December 29th, 1956, in Greensboro, Bobby was a devoted husband, father, brother, and friend whose love and laughter filled every room he entered. Bobby leaves behind his wife of 46 years, Teresa Vick Williams, with whom he shared a lifelong love story that began in their high school years and grew into an extraordinary journey of love, laughter, and adventure. They were fortunate to navigate their life side by side, enjoying each other’s company from their backyard to Big Sur. You rarely saw one without the other, with “Mr. Bobby” even appearing at St. Luke’s Mothers Morning Out program daily to pick up Teresa and greet his adoring child fans. Together, they raised their pride and joy, daughter, Kristen Davis Williams, who was the center of his world. He never missed a chance to show her picture or speak proudly of her achievements to all he encountered. If he wasn’t in a Clemson shirt or a button-down, he was wearing a WUNC Radio shirt to support her career. Bobby shared a deep bond and love for his son-in-law Bill Rawson and was looking forward to his retirement in Elizabeth City to do projects, kayak, and have a patio beer with Bill. A Salisbury native, Bobby excelled in the financial services industry, dedicating his career to guiding clients toward their financial dreams. He was more than a financial advisor; he was a trusted confidant and a steadfast friend to many. His professional life was marked by integrity, dedication, and the genuine relationships he fostered over the years. His dedication to his clients was an inspiration to daughter Kristen in her career and his LinkedIn posts brought a smile to many with his enthusiasm and support for others. Bobby was a man of faith, a member of the First Presbyterian Church, where he served as an usher and volunteered with TWAM. He often spoke of the trip to Mexico with Kristen and his honorary daughters as being a meaningful experience. Bobby was someone who believed in giving back to his community and those he loved, with friends describing him as a man of selfless service. Family was the cornerstone of Bobby’s life, and he was blessed with a loving family that included his sister Sherry Whitley, his brothers Michael (Gloria) and Thomas (Robin) Williams, his brother-in-law William Thomas Vick, Jr., and sister-in-law Susan Vick. He was a beloved uncle to nieces and nephews and a second father to his chosen daughters and sons. His family circle was completed by his dogs, Finn and Luke, who were constant companions on his daily walks, where he knew the name of every dog in the neighborhood. Bobby was a man of boundless energy and enthusiasm, who found joy in the simplest pleasures—whether tending to his yard, exploring the world with his family, or enjoying a cold beer in the sunshine. He was excited about his retirement plans in Elizabeth City, where he envisioned himself a regular on the pickleball court and a guide for the Wild Horse tours in Corolla. Known for his warm heart and infectious smile, Bobby never met a stranger. His ability to connect with others was unmatched, and he was a beacon of kindness and warmth to all creatures, great and small. Bobby’s laughter was contagious, his spirit generous, and his zest for life inspiring. Bobby is predeceased by his parents, JC (Jake) Williams and Nell Julian Williams, as well as Tommy Whitley, Frieda Davis Vick, and William Thomas Vick, Sr. His legacy is carried forward by those who survive him and who will forever treasure the memories they shared. A celebration of Bobby’s life will be held on April 25, 2026, at 2:00 PM at the Country Club of Salisbury, located at 747 Club Dr in Salisbury. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, the Humane Society of Charlotte, or Meals on Wheels Rowan in his honor. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to friends, family, neighbors, and the community for their overwhelming support during this time, and especially to the paramedics and the three angels who came to Bobby and Teresa's aid on that difficult day. Your love has been a source of comfort and strength in the wake of this devastating loss. Bobby’s spirit will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those who loved him. May we all strive to live with the same joy, kindness, excitement for life and unyielding spirit that he shared with the world and “Be Like Bobby.” Summersett Funeral Home is serving the Williams family. Online condolences may be made at www.summersettfuneralhome.com.

Robert L. Williams

December 29, 1956 - April 6, 2026