Richard A. Williams, 98, of Walton, passed away Wednesday morning, March 17, 2010 at the NYS Veteran's Home, Oxford.

Dick was born in Walton on January 23, 1912, the son of the late Paul and Bertha (Cable) Williams. He was a graduate of Walton High School, class of 1930 and later graduated from Hartwick College in 1934 with an AB degree. He did his post graduate work at Albany Teachers College in the summer of 1935. He was first employed as an interviewer for the NY State Employment Service, and then went to work for the National Bank of Delaware County for 39 years, retiring in 1977. He proudly served his country during WW II, serving in Ft. Polk, LA; England, France (Battle of the Bulge), and Germany. He was awarded the Bronze Star and several other decorations. Following VE Day, he studied French at the Sorbonne.

On July 9, 1955, in Cape Vincent, he married the former Phyllis Merchant. He was a longtime member and treasurer of the Walton Chapter of the American Cancer Society, the Walton American Legion, and member and former treasurer of Christ Episcopal Church, Walton. He always enjoyed gardening and working outside. He was happiest when he could be outdoors planting and transplanting his perennials. He enjoyed the wildlife, from birds to bears, around his home. He enjoyed refinishing furniture and collecting antiques.

He is survived by his loving family, his wife, Phyllis, his children, Ann Markham of Norwich, his son, Thomas Williams, and daughter-in-law Janet of Walton; grandchildren, Lindsey, and Casey Markham of Norwich, Nathan and Ashley Williams of Walton; great-grandchildren, Kennedy Williams, Cameron, Ashton, and Carson Schofield, sisters and Brother-in- laws, Emelie and William Cuppernell, Elinor Skinner, and Dr. James (Ila) Sterling; many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his brothers Robert, Bruce, Paul and Dan, and a son Robert.

Services will be held in the spring at the convenience of the family.

Memorial contributions in Dick's memory may be made to Christ Episcopal Church, Walton or the American Cancer Society.