Lookout Mountain Community Mourns the Passing of Local Hero Robert Lawton Williams at 86

Lookout Mountain Bids Farewell to a Local Hero: Robert Lawton Williams

On a serene Saturday, October 19, 2024, the community of Lookout Mountain came together in sorrow as they mourned the loss of 86-year-old Robert Lawton Williams. Known to his friends and family as R.L., he passed away peacefully, leaving behind a rich legacy that exemplifies dedication, service, and love for life.

A Patriot and a Leader

Born on March 27, 1938, in nearby Chattanooga, R.L. dedicated a significant portion of his life to serving his country with exceptional honor. His impressive career in the U.S. Army spanned over 20 years, where he held various roles across multiple branches, including the Infantry, Medical Service, Armor, as well as positions in the Inspector General Corps and General Staff. Notably, R.L. bravely served a year-long deployment in the Republic of Vietnam, which is a testament to his courage and commitment to his fellow Americans.

After his distinguished military service, where he ultimately retired with the rank of full colonel (O-6), R.L. continued his contributions to the nation in various federal positions. He mostly served in places like San Antonio and Kentucky. His post-military career kicked off at NASA, where he spent over four years writing and negotiating contracts. But he didn’t stop there; he went on to spend more than 16 years in contracting with the Department of Defense, even making a six-month deployment to Tikrit, Iraq, at the impressive age of 72.

Educational Accomplishments

R.L.’s resume was decorated not just with experience but also with impressive educational qualifications. He attended The Webb School in Bell Buckle, Tennessee, where he laid the foundation for his academic career. He later earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Tennessee and a master’s degree from Texas A&M University. His thirst for knowledge led him to further his military education at the U.S. Army War College and complete post-graduate studies in civil engineering.

Life Beyond Work

Beyond his remarkable career and educational pursuits, R.L. was an active and vibrant member of the community. As a member of the Church of the Good Shepherd Episcopal Church, he not only embraced his faith but also shared it with others through fellowship and community service. His hobbies were as dynamic as his career; R.L. loved boxing, flying kites, running, hiking, and swimming. He had a particular fondness for sports, people, and animals, and he always greeted everyone with warmth and kindness. Friends and family remember him as someone who managed to lighten up any room he entered with his enthusiasm for life.

Remembering R.L.

R.L. is survived by his loving wife, Mary Elliott Williams, alongside his nieces Sarah McKenzie, Nancy Stagmaier, and Mary Fritsche who cherish the memories they made with him.

Graveside services, accompanied by military honors, will be held on Thursday, October 31, at Chattanooga National Cemetery, where The Rev. Michele Simmons will officiate. A reception will take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. that same day in the Talbird Hall at the Church of the Good Shepherd. Residents are welcome to gather and share stories and memories during this poignant celebration of R.L.’s life. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages contributions to be made to the Alzheimer’s Foundation for those who wish to honor his memory with a charitable gesture.

Such was the remarkable life of R.L. Williams, a man who exemplified service, adventure, and joy. His memory will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known him.