Derek Ransom Williams, of Potsdam New York, passed away on Wednesday, September 16, 2026 in Webster, Texas at the age of 89 with his wife and daughters by his side. He was born on October 7, 1936 in Potsdam to Floyd and Helen Williams.

Derek’s life was a life well lived. He was a route salesman for Wonder Bread for 36 ½ years meeting and cultivating many friendships throughout his career that he would reminisce of fondly. He enjoyed summers camping at Postwood Park and Stowe Bay and telling many stories around the campfires. He and his family traveled from Maine to Florida with their camper trailer, spending many spring breaks in Myrtle Beach, SC. Later in life, he loved spending time with Cathy at their summer cottage of 18 years in Port LeBlanc just over the Canadian border on the St. Lawrence Seaway, frying up fish he helped Cathy catch for their many family and friend fish fry gatherings over the years. Creating annual memories of strawberry picking and apple picking were a must throughout the years. He loved the winter cold and its activities including many years of snowmobiling both with his daughters as their ride back up the hill for sledding or trudging through the snow after a long day of work to recover where they got them stuck, and also through the woods of the Adirondacks with friends. He enjoyed their 28 winters of fun, relaxing and fishing in Port Aransas, TX. Derek and Cathy traveled in retirement to places including Hawaii, Jamaica, Bahamas, and Aruba. Derek was a member of his Adirondack Hunting Club for many years as well as being a Lifetime member of the Potsdam Elks Club. Derek was devoted, supportive, humble, good natured, funny, and intelligent (he read the newspaper every day for decades). Often seen as a quiet man, he loved to tell a joke and recite a limerick, and you could usually hear him singing a song throughout the day. In the end, he was able to thank Cathy, his constant companion for choosing him those 66 years ago. His memories will live on through all that knew him

He was preceded in death by his parents and his daughter, Penny Williams Ambroze.

Derek is survived by his wife of 66 years Catherine Austin Williams, daughter Patricia Williams (Naaman Lowry), daughter Susan Williams Travis, brothers Darrell Williams (Daphna), and John Williams (Joanne). He was a loving Papa to his grandson Derek Gordon (Danielle) and great grandchildren Peyson and Paxton Gordon. He is also survived by step grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and extended family.

A graveside service will be held next spring for family and friends in upstate New York.

The family asks that you honor Derek by donating to your local blood bank or to the American Red Cross directly.