Richard Lee Williams - Rick

On August 28, Rick Williams passed peacefully with his wife and children by his side.

In 2013 Rick was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. In 2018, stage 4 colon cancer. Life dealt him a crappy hand. Didn’t matter. He pushed forward and lived the best he could. Never complained and he was never mad nor bitter.

Rick was a phenomenal golfer. He grew up playing at Raintree Country Club in Charlotte, NC. During the summers he would walk 18 holes in the morning, walk home for lunch, and walk another 18 in the afternoon. Rick won many area tournaments and club championships. He also played on South Mecklenburg High School’s golf team. He always said his handicap peaked at 15.

Up until November, he played golf most weekends. Even if he couldn’t get a full 18 in, just being on the course with his golf buddies was everything. After the round they would head to the Red Fox for lunch and a drink.

Rick truly loved being an engineer. In 1988, graduated from North Carolina State University in Electrical Engineering as Valedictorian. Afterwards, he obtained his Masters in Computer Engineering from NCSU, as well. Throughout school, he made only A’s. Never anything less. If anyone knew that about him it wasn’t because he told them. He was modest and humble.

His work at NVidia was fulfilling and a key part of him managing his illness. Rick was grateful for the NVidia and Lenovo teams and their constant support.

As a diehard Wolfpack fan, football and basketball games were always a priority. Rick had a blast at tailgates enjoying good bourbon, food, and friends. GO PACK!

Music was his go-to in any situation. No matter the mood or setting Rick would turn to his latest playlist. He had an eclectic mix of everything. Collective Soul, Rolling Stones, Black Keys, Gary Clark Jr., Rissi Palmer, Prince, Avett Brothers, AC/DC… too many to list. Rick's favorite song of all time was "Sympathy for the Devil" by The Rolling Stones. His most recent song of choice was "I’m a Ram" by Al Green. ❤️

Most of all, Rick loved and protected his family. The only thing that ever truly mattered in his life was his kids. Zach and Ashley were his pride and joy. He loved every dance recital, game, and school event. He raised them to be compassionate and humble. He always wanted the kids to make their own choices and pursue their own goals. They are the best of Rick. His presence is seen in Zach and Ashley.

Rick met his wife, Beth, of 33 years in a small bar on Western Blvd in Raleigh in March, 1988. Three months later he asked her to marry him. In another ten months they were married. Rick and Beth were the closest of friends for 34 years. They shared a deep connection that carried them through many ups and downs. To say they loved each other is an understatement. It was more than simply love.

Rick is predeceased by his mother, Annie Lee Williams, and father, Robert Lee Williams.

He leaves behind his wife, Elizabeth Caviness Williams; children, Zachary Steven Williams and Ashley Elizabeth Williams; sister, Patricia Ann Voyles and her husband, David; nephew, Joshua Steven Voyles.

A private Celebration of Life gathering will be planned.