Long-time Lido Shorian Tom Williams has Died

Thomas Williams - Sep 26, 1937 - May 8, 2021

Editors Note:  We're sad to report that Tom Williams, a longtime member of our Lido Shores community has passed away.  Tom lived with his wife Carol at 1247 Westway Drive.  They purchased the Westway lot in 1998 and moved into their completed house in December, 2001.  

Both were active LSPOA members.  Tom could often be seen walking the neighborhood daily in his signature safari hat.  Carol is often up front at many neighborhood social events, working the sign-in desk or providing center pieces for Potlucks and Annual Meetings.  

Below is the Obituary that ran in the Sarasota Herald Tribune.  

Thomas Ray (Tom) Williams died in Sarasota, FL on May 8, 2021. He was born in Eugene, OR on September 26, 1937, the son of Basil and Mary Ellen Williams. Tom attended Eugene public schools, graduating from Eugene High School in 1955. That year he won the Oregon State Debate Championship. 

Tom attended Stanford University, graduating in 1959. While there he met Carol (Belknap), the love of his life, whom he married in December 1958. After graduation they returned to Eugene, and Tom began work at Williams' Bakery. He assumed the presidency of the company upon his father's death in 1963. 

Tom and Carol Williams at LSPOA Annual Meeting

Under Tom's leadership the company grew to nearly 400 employees and produced a wide variety of bread and rolls. In 1968 Tom was selected as a White House Fellow, serving as an assistant to the Secretary of Commerce and participating in the Fellows educational program. 

After a year in Washington, D.C. the family returned to Eugene and Tom was appointed to fill a vacant seat on the Eugene City Council. Subsequently he was elected for two additional terms. He also served as President of the League of Oregon Cities. 

Tom served his community in many other ways, as a Trustee of the University of Oregon Foundation, Board Chair of Citizens Bank and a founder of KMTR-TV. He pursued a lifelong interest in photography, in later years taking many pictures of his grandchildren. He also enjoyed piloting, computers, boating and scuba diving. 

He baked bread at home, taking fresh loaves to friends when invited to dinner. Tom is survived by his wife Carol, son Scott, daughter Shannon, adored grandchildren Rachel (Alex Fernandes), Jade and Soren, and great-granddaughter Alina. 

At his request no services will be held. Remembrances in his memory may be given to Planned Parenthood of SW Florida, Sarasota Military Academy Foundation or the Community Foundation of Sarasota.