Dr. Roger Dean Williams, D.D.S., aged 86, passed away peacefully on June 5, 2021, in Riverview, FL, following a long, courageous battle with dementia and cancer. He leaves behind a legacy of dedicated service to his country, his patients, and the generations of dental professionals he mentored.
Born on July 8, 1934, to Ralph and Emily Grace (née Brokaw) Williams, Roger grew up in Marion, OH. After graduating from Harding High School in 1952, Roger answered the call to duty and served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War, with assignments in Illinois, Germany, and South Carolina.
Following his military service, Roger pursued his passion for higher education at The Ohio State University. He earned a bachelor’s degree in education before completing his Doctorate in Dental Surgery in 1966. Roger went on to establish a thriving dental practice in Urbana, OH, where he and his wife, Mary, became deeply rooted, active parishioners at St. Mary Catholic Church.
Roger’s commitment to his profession extended far beyond his private practice. For over 45 years, he shaped the future of dentistry as a Clinical Assistant Professor of Dental Surgery at The Ohio State University Dental School. His profound contributions to the field earned him the distinction of being named a Fellow of the American College of Dentists. He also served as Vice Chairman of the Council of Education for the Ohio Dental Association and remained a lifelong, passionate supporter of his alma mater as a member of The President’s Club.
Roger was preceded in death by his parents; and his siblings, Bill, Carroll, Virginia, Keith, and Sheila Nash.
His memory will be lovingly cherished by his four children: Eva Williams of Eau Claire, WI; Victoria (Larry) Witherup of Stuart, FL; Marc (Andrea) Williams of Wadsworth, OH; and Laura Williams of Riverview, FL. He is also survived by his five grandchildren, Hillary, Brandon, Melanie, Kyle, and Luke; and his two great-grandchildren, Brooks and Addison.
Dr. Williams will be laid to rest alongside his wife, Mary Ellen, in Breese, IL, on September 26, 2026. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Roger’s memory to the American Cancer Society or the Alzheimer's Association to support continuing research and patient care and will be received at the visitation or by mail at Moss Funeral Home, 535 N. 5th Street, Breese, IL 62230, who is serving the family.
Expressions of sympathy can be sent to the family at www.mossfuneralhome.com.