Royce Williams' Obituary
A native of Manatee County, born July 17, 1938, peacefully passed away June 6, 2015 with his daughter and two nieces by his side in Kennesaw, GA. He graduated from Manatee County High School, earned a B.S. from the University of Florida, Masters of Science Ag from UF, a Specialist Vocational Ed degree from the USF. Served in the Florida Army National Guard 1961-1980. Member of the First Baptist Church of Bradenton, Shrine Club, Kiwanis Club, Masonic Lodge, Scottish Rite, Manatee County Fair Board, 4-H foundation, Manasota Chapter FNGA, Kentucky Colonel Florida Vocational Association, American Vocational Association, Alpha Gamma Rho, Phi Epsilon Phi, Laurate American Technology, Ag Teachers Owl Club. Outstanding Vocational Educator, 4-H Agent Citrus County, County Agent Lake County; organized the first 4-H horse club in the state of Florida. Developed Nursery Operation program at Manatee Vocational and Technical Center. Began a series of night classes there for the general public. Helped develop and taught the first Florida Certified Nursery Professional Program. Helped developed and taught Lawn Maintenance Owner & Operator certification program. Served on the Florida Horticulture Industries certification board. Served on the Golden Herald Selection Committee. He served the youth of Manatee County as an advisor for 4-H and FFA. Retired as Supervisor of Vocational and Technical Education for Manatee County. Out-standing Agriculturist 2004. He enjoyed some of his retirement in Florida and some in Georgia still growing lots of plants and teaching his grandboys all he could about horticulture, the Lord and love. He was not only an educator, an administrator, and a mentor, but he was also a friend to all mankind. He was preceded in passing by his brother Ted Williams. He's survived by his sister Gwen Mimbs of Parrish, sister-in-law Sharon Williams of Ellenton, daughter, Maleyne (Williams) Francis, of Kennesaw, GA, Son-in-law Enrico Francis; son, Mack Williams; Grandsons Grant Williams, Carter Francis, Royce Francis, Lane Francis, Joshua Williams, and many loving nieces and nephews. Visitation Sat. June 13, 2015 1PM at Palm View First Baptist Church. Service begins at 2PM. Will CC family so they can receive cost upon response with submission.
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