Obituaries

Lawrence (Larry) Williams, age 80, of Jefferson Twp., passed away Sunday at Geisinger Community Medical Center, after an illness. Surviving is his beloved wife, Shirley (Davis) Williams. The couple were blessed to celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on January 10th.
Born on April 3, 1939, and raised in West Scranton, Larry was the son of the late Daniel and Ethel Jacobs Williams. After attending West Scranton High School, Larry first worked at the Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort where he had memorably served as Jackie Gleason’s caddy. His career in auto parts spanned over 50 years, working for General Auto; Phillips and Maier; Lightning Auto; and, prior to retirement at 73 years young, Tom Hesser of Scranton.
A longtime athlete and lifelong sports fan, Larry enjoyed golfing, hunting, fishing and bowling, where he had played in numerous leagues while rolling two career perfect 300 games. Above all, he was a baseball fan. He played softball well into his 50’s while even owning a baseball card and collectible shop in Scranton for many years.
Leaving behind his adoring family and loving friends, Larry will be missed forever.
He is also survived by his two children, Larry “Boomer” Williams and wife Melissa of Hamlin and Donna Venturi of Archbald; four grandchildren Tommy, Julie, LJ and Nicole; five great grandchildren; nieces and nephews; a sister-in-law, Sally Yerke of Old Forge; and a brother-in-law, Samuel “Butch” Davis and wife Carol of Hamlin.
He was also preceded in death by his five brothers, Robert, Ronald, Jack, Delbert and Daniel Williams, Jr.; and his pup, “Ernie.”
Private blessing services by Rev. Dr. Michael Shambora, Pastor of the Stewart United Methodist Church in Old Forge, will be at the Thomas P. Kearney Funeral Home, Inc., 517 North Main Street, Old Forge. Entombment will follow at Fairview Memorial Park Mausoleum, Elmhurst Twp.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Larry’s name to St. Jude Children Research Hospital, 387 East South Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702.