Obituaries

Robert (Bobby) Williams, age 47 and a lifelong resident of Old Forge, passed away on Sunday.
Born on January 15, 1975, Bobby was the beloved son of John (Jack) Williams of Old Forge and the late Frances (Smicherko) Williams. A graduate of Old Forge High School, Class of 1993, he was also a proud member of the ’92 Blue Devils’ PIAA Class 2A Baseball Championship Team.
He earned his Bachelor’s Degree in History from Bloomsburg University before earning a Master’s Degree in Special Education from the University of Arkansas.
After spending five years with Cigna Insurance Company, he began his career as an educator with the Old Forge School District where he taught numerous classes while touching the lives of countless students and colleagues over his seven year tenure. His students adored him and his positive impression on their lives will long remain.
Bobby will forever be remembered for so many things. He possessed both a huge heart, always willing to help those in need, and also great humor. He loved his sports, especially rooting for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish and the Boston Red Sox, and he loved music, especially some good ‘ol classic rock.
Bobby will be forever loved by all who knew him.
He is also survived by his six adoring siblings, Linda Bradigan and husband Mark of Inkerman, Cathie Rich and husband Michael of Laflin, Margie Budzak of Old Forge, Jeannie Kukla and husband Matt of Old Forge, Jack Williams, Jr. and wife Michelle of Moscow and Ricky Williams of Old Forge; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
An infant brother, Paul Williams, and a brother-in-law, Brian Budzak, also preceded him in death.
A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for Tuesday at noon at St. Mary of the Assumption Church, Prince of Peace Parish, Old Forge, to be celebrated by Rev. August A. Ricciardi, Pastor. Private burial, Holy Cross Cemetery in Old Forge.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on Tuesday from 10:00 AM until Mass at the church.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Robert Williams’ Scholarship Fund c/o Old Forge High School, 300 Marion Street, Old Forge, PA 18518.
Arrangements are under the care of the Thomas P. Kearney Funeral Home, Inc., 517 North Main Street, Old Forge.