Roger Williams — Rest in Peace

Roger Williams past away this week after a lifetime of public service to his country, community, and the State of Georgia.  In 1963, he moved to Dalton, Georgia after having served in the Army as a Captain.  He quickly became a leader in his community and was first elected to the Georgia House of Representatives in 1976.  Roger served five terms during his first tour in the State House, and then returned again to the legislature from 2001 to 2012.  After retiring from the legislature, he was selected by members of the Georgia General Assembly to serve on the Georgia Department of Transportation Board.

I came to know Roger during my tenure in the House and like every other member of the General Assembly trusted his wisdom and warmth.  His goal as an elected official was simple — how do we improve the lives of the people we serve. 

Georgia House Speaker David Ralston this week said of Roger, “ [He] served with grace, dignity and integrity. He cared deeply about his community and worked hard every day to represent Dalton and Whitfield County. Not only was he a great leader, but he was a dear friend of mine and a solid rock of wisdom and good counsel.” 

May the Peace of the Lord be with his wife Joann and his children and grandchildren during this time of sorrow and remembrance.