Winston Williamson

Published 12:00 am Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Winston W. Williamson
FRANKLIN—Winston Waring Williamson, 86, of Burdette, passed away November 30, 2009, at Sentara Obici Hospital in Suffolk.
A native of Norfolk, he was a son of the late Charles Lee and Folsom Waring Williamson, and was predeceased by a brother, Charles Lee Williamson, Jr. He was a graduate of Granby High School where he lettered in football and track, and also a graduate of the Merchant Marine Academy, Kings Point, NY. Later, Winston entered the U. S. Navy as an Ensign.
Following distinguished service in WW II on the Robert Rowen, a Liberty ship which was destroyed by enemy fire off the coast of Sicily, he bravely served in the Korean War. He retired with the rank of Commander. After his retirement from the Navy, he spent many years as a stock broker with Paine-Webber Associates in Norfolk.
Commander Williamson was a man with many talents and hobbies. He was an avid bowler, gardener, and carpenter. Many bluebird boxes around the county are examples of his skill in carpentry and his love of nature. He was a highly patriotic citizen who always flew the American and Virginia state flags from his lawn. Winston was a kind and generous neighbor who will be missed by all who knew him.
Winston leaves behind to mourn his passing a God-daughter and God-son, Jennifer and Jeffrey Raiford, and a host of friends. Predominately among them are Dan and Sylvie Raiford, Elizabeth Hurd, Joseph Buie, Merritt Raiford, and Jerry and Carlton Cutchins.
A graveside service, with military honors, will be conducted at 11 a.m. Friday at Forest Lawn Cemetery, Norfolk, with the Rev. Dr. Joseph A. Talley officiating.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a favorite charity or American Cancer Society.
Wright Funeral Home, Franklin, has charge of arrangements.
Condolences may be offered at www.wrightfuneralhome.org.