Raphael Williamson

New London — Raphael G. Williamson of New London, passed away due to illness on Wednesday, June 13, 2018, at home with his daughter, Hazel, by his side.

He was born Jan. 27, 1934, in Bethel Town, Jamaica, the son of Joseph and Annette (Wilson) Williamson.

Mr. Williamson, an ambitious man, traveled to England in his early 20s in search of a prosperous career. In England, he took on a multitude of jobs including one he so passionately pursued as a carpenter. After years of working in England he moved to the United States where he used his talent of craftsmanship to build homes in Hartford until finally finding his calling as a welder for Electric Boat in Groton where he retired.

He married Adelma Quidet and settled in New London where they raised their daughter, Hazel and son, Ulysses. Ulysses predeceased him on Sept. 27, 2017. Mr. Williamson and Adelma divorced in later years, yet they supportively remained in each others lives. Her current husband, Andy Bogan of Waterford, was also a dear friend of Mr. Williamson.

Mr. Williamson was a devout Seventh-day Adventist and was sure to instill his spirituality on his family.

Mr. Williamson is survived by his daughter, Hazel Williamson of Waterford. Also surviving are his other daughters, Donna Vassell of New York and Grace Williamson of Georgia; along with his brothers, Jeff and Brian; and sister, Winsome Wilson; nieces, nephews and grandchildren.

The funeral service will be held at 11:30 a.m. Friday at the Byles Memorial Home, 99 Huntington St., New London. Burial will follow in Cedar Grove Cemetery.

Please visit www.Byles.com for directions, to share a memory or to sign the guest book.