Frank S. Williamson, Jr.

Frank S. Williamson Jr., a devoted husband, father, grandfather, educator, and beloved community member, passed away on February 25, 2025, at the age of 98 in Emporia, KS.

Born on December 12, 1926, in Springfield, MA, Frank was the son of Frank S. Williamson Sr. and Edith H. Getman. He grew up in Chicopee, MA and Melbourne Australia, alongside his brothers Robert G. Williamson, Richard D. Williamson, Gerald K. Williamson, and his sister Mary Sue (Williamson) Kellway. In 1961, Frank married Mary Whitney Cole in Castleton, VT.

Frank graduated magna cum laude from Classical High School in Springfield, MA and went on to graduate magna cum laude from Middlebury College in VT. In 1954 he earned his Ph.D. in inorganic chemistry from the University of Wisconsin, Madison.  He pursued his passion for teaching at Dartmouth College, the General Electric Research Laboratory, and Washington University in St. Louis, where he worked until his retirement in 1991.

After his retirement, Frank and Mary returned to Castleton, VT, where they became deeply involved in their community. Frank was an active member of the Castleton Historical Society and the Castleton Free Library, he served as a trustee for the Town Trustees of Public Funds as a member of the vestry at St. Luke's Episcopal Church.  His love for the Vermont hills was reflected in his passion for hiking and gardening.  Frank also contributed to the preservation of Castleton's history through his work with the local historical society. In 2009, Frank and Mary relocated to Webster Groves, MO, to be closer to their family.

Frank's life was defined by his love for learning, his passion for science, and his deep commitment to his family and community. His intellectual curiosity and dedication to education inspired countless students over the years. He leaves behind a lasting impact on his family, colleagues, and the many individuals whose lives he touched.

Frank is predeceased by his wife of 54 years, Mary, his parents and siblings. He is survived by his children, Sarah (Tommy) Sutton of Emporia, KS; Susan Madsen of Sedro Woolley, WA, and Andrew (Corinne) Williamson of Fort Mill, SC; as well as his two granddaughters, Lauren and Samantha; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family members. After his wife Mary passed away, his eldest daughter Sarah and her husband Tommy welcomed Frank to Emporia Kansas where he happily spent his final days.

Frank's remains will be laid to rest alongside Mary's in Hillside Cemetery in Castleton, VT. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Castleton Historical Society, the Susan G. Komen Foundation, or a charity of your choice in Frank's memory. Roberts-Blue-Barnett Funeral Home, Emporia, Kansas, is assisting with arrangements