Melvin W. Williams, 88

February 18, 2024

Melvin W. Williams, 88, of Lancaster, passed away on Sunday, February 18, 2024 at Lancaster General Hospital. Born in Georgetown, PA, he was the son of the late Verna (Gregg) and J. Chester Williams. He was the beloved husband of the late Sally A. Williams to whom he was married for 20 years.

Melvin served his country as a veteran of the US Army. Following his military service, he started his lifelong career in advertising, starting at Garvins and later becoming National Advertising Manager for Lancaster Newspapers, Inc., where he dedicated over 43 years of his life. Melvin approached his work with a passion and dedication that earned him the respect of his colleagues and clients. Even after his retirement, Melvin took great pride in the local newspaper and spoke often of his days at the newspaper.

As a life-long resident of the Lancaster area, Melvin supported many local causes and also was a member of the Rotary Club of Lancaster.

His love for Ocean City, NJ, was evident in his frequent visits with his wife, where they would enjoy dining out and in later years would drive to the parking lots along the inlet to get a glimpse of the ocean together. A die-hard fan of the Lancaster Barnstormers, Melvin’s enthusiasm for the team was infectious, and even after he could no longer attend the games in person, he would watch the livestreams from his home.

Melvin never met a sweet treat that he did not like and finished off almost every meal with dessert or ice cream.

But even more than sweets, Melvin cherished his family deeply. He took immense pride in providing for his family and creating lasting memories with them. He took great care of those whom he loved.

Melvin is survived by his children, Claudia Williams Esbenshade of Lancaster, John Williams husband of Jessica of Maytown, Stephanie Hickey wife of Toby of Lancaster, and Brian Leid husband of Susan of Mt. Joy, and; grandchildren: Logan Hickey, Caitlin Clark, Drew Esbenshade, and Zachary Leid; great-grandchildren: Jackson and Maisie. He was preceded in death by his sister Phyllis Ruoss and his first wife, Donna Rankin Williams.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Lancaster County Local Journalism Fund (https://lancjournalismfund.org/) The Kidney Foundation or the American Heart Association.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 5 p.m. Sunday, March 17, at Grace Community Church of Willow Street, 212 Peach Bottom Road, Willow Street, PA 17584. Visitation will be held at 4 p.m. with the service immediately following.