The Community Service Award is granted to the individual nominated by the Francis Marion Chapter of the DAR by the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution. It recognizes a worthy resident from a variety of walks of life for unpaid achievements in the cultural, educational, humanitarian, patriotic, historical, and citizenship endeavors, or conservation. The recipient must have contributed to their community in an outstanding manner for voluntary, heroic, civic, or benevolent service.
Roger Williams is the 2012 distinguished winner of the Community Service Award for Francis Marion Chapter. Those who sent in recommendations for this award for Mr. Williams were: beginning with Dr. Karl Stegall retired minister of the First United Methodist Church. His letter commended his service to the community through the Habitat for Humanity in Montgomery. Mr. Williams served in the top offices of leadership, led their fund raising efforts, and became very involved in the hands on efforts of building each Habitat home in Montgomery. He is the face of "Mr. Habitat for Humanity."
Mr. Rufus Craig, retired attorney, and member of the board of Habitat for Humanity recommended Roger Williams for his devoted service to Habitat. He spoke of his many services in Habitat but added that Roger was instrumental in the opening of Restore Retail Operation that has $800,000 in annual sales revenue for the cause. "He is the ONE person who is responsible for the success of Montgomery Habitat."
Roger was active in Children's Fist organization and supported all of its fund raising efforts and assisting in their wonderful outreach. Chief Justice Sue Bell Cobb, a board member of Children's First organization said, "Roger Williams is a strong champion for Children's First and she is proud to recommend him for this coveted award, for Roger Williams helped in raising awareness for the well-being of Alabama's children."
Dr. Lawson Bryan, senior minister of First United Methodist Church wrote of Roger Wiliams being the driving force behind the decision of our church to raise $60,000 to build a home for Carla Surles and her son, Brandon. The Surles came and fellowshipped with the church while the house was under construction. Dr. Bryan also wrote of Roger's service in every area of the church: Cathedral and Concert Choir, the Board, the Mission Committee, Worship Committee, Long Range Planning Committee, Evangelism Committee.
Roger Williams and his wife Faye has one daughter and three grandchildren. They retired in Montgomery to be near their daughter. Previously Roger worked for Pfizer and Abbott Industries. His home is in eastern North Carolina, and he is a graduate of Methodist University, Fayetteville, North Carolina.
Geri Craig, Past Regent of Francis Marion Chapter is the Chairman of the Community Service Award. Present at the presentation was Rufus Craig, Rogers wife Faye Williams. Mr. Williams gave a humble acceptance and inspiring story about the DAR in his home state of North Carolna. Regent Lee Anne Wofford presided over the luncheon meeting of the Francis Marion Chapter.
Faye and Roger Williams with Geri and Rufus Craig after awards presentation.
