Obituary of Robert C. Williamson
North Plainfield – Robert C. Williamson, 77, passed away on Saturday, March 16, 2024 at Overlook Medical Center in Summit, after battling cancer.
Born in Philadelphia, PA to the late Robert and Alberta (Foley) Williamson, Robert resided in Pulaski, Virginia before settling in Middlesex as a teenager. After graduating from Middlesex High School, Robert earned his bachelor’s degree from Cornell University in 1969, and then earned his Master of Social Work at Adelphi University in 1975.
Until his retirement, Robert worked with the State of New Jersey in the Department of Children and Families. He spent 43 years with the agency. The work was deeply meaningful to him, as he and his brother had been foster children. He spent his career helping others like himself.
In 1970, Robert married his sweetheart, Suzanne Joy Gessner, also of Middlesex. They raised four children in North Plainfield and were married for 49 beautiful years until her passing in March of 2020.
An avid fisherman, Robert also enjoyed completing crossword puzzles and riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle. He appreciated and perfected the art of grilling and enjoyed local entertainment, whether a parade, food truck festival or high school sports event. He could play the guitar, handle a motorboat, and fix things around the house. He was fiercely independent.
Predeceased by his wife, Suzanne Joy Williamson; son, Daniel Williamson and brother, John Williamson; surviving are his three children, Elizabeth Donaldson, Kathryn Levis Williamson and Eric Williamson; and his dear friend, Yvonne Yannetta.
He will also be missed by his three grandchildren, Charlie, Alexander and Archer.
A memorial gathering will be held on Saturday, March 30, 2024 from 12PM – 2PM in the Middlesex Funeral Home, 528 Bound Brook Road Middlesex NJ 08846.