Prominent Citizen, Banker, Businessman And Churchman, Dies Here At Age of 71
Norwood’s outstanding citizen, banker, businessman, and churchman. R. Russell Williamson, died unexpectedly at the Norwood Hospital Saturday afternoon following a heart ailment for which he had been under treatment.
The passing of this man has stirred the community which had come to accept Russell Williamson as an institution, within himself, of stability and character to which few attain and upon whom many | had become accustomed to rely for advice, counsel, and assistance.
Born in Norwood, November 10, 1879, the son of the late William A. Williamson and Harriet Wallace Williamson, and educated in the local schools, he spent practically his entire life in this community.
As a young man he became associated with his uncle, the late Thomas O. Metcalf, in the Boston printing firm bearing that name and at the time of his death was the President and Treasurer of the company.
Russell Williamson built himself into the life of Norwood, quietly and unassumingly, by the very force of his character and ability His strength of leadership lay in the considerate manner in which he dealt with others, in all the contacts of life, and instinctively inspired confidence in his wisdom and leadership.
The wide range of his interests indicates the extent to which he had devoted himself to public service. In addition to his life-long connection with the T. O. Metcalf Co., he was Vice-President and Director of The Williamson Offset Co. President and Director of The Graphic Arts Building. Inc., and Director of Barta Griffin Co, all of Boston.
In Norwood connections, he was probably best known as President of The Norwood Cooperative Bank which position he had held since 1927. The handsome new building with its commodious banking quarters for this institution was the dream of his life and stands today as a fitting memorial to his leadership. foresight and ingenuity- The hosts of friends who greeted him upon the occasion of the formal opening of the new Cooperative Bank building on Guild Square last April 20th will recall the evident satisfaction he enjoyed in the completion of this important enter- prize.
He was also a Director of The Norfolk County Trust Co., a Trustee of The Norwood Hospital, in which he had been deeply interested since its founding. He was a member of The First Congregational Church for 53 years standing and had served the Church in many capacities including service as a Deacon. Member of the Prudential Committee and Trustee as well as being a regular attendant and generous supporter.
. His fraternal connections included Orient Lodge A. F. & A. M , Hebron Royal Arch Chapter. Temple Commandery No. 44 Knights Templar, and Aleppo Temple A.A. O N.M.S of Boston-
In September, 190-1. Mr. Williamson married Sarah A- Streeter of Johnstown, N. Y. who survives him. He is also survived by his three sons, Robert W Williamson. George S. and John W. all of Norwood, by two sisters, Mrs. Charles J. Rich of Norwood and Mrs. John B. Hull, Jr. of Great Barrington. Mass-, and seven grandchildren.
Memorial Services were conducted in the First Congregational Church. Wednesday, May 31, by his pastor. Rev. William F. English. assisted by the Rev. Allison Ray Heaps of Somers. Connecticut, a former pastor and friend of Mr. Williamson of many years standing- The bearers were David H. Flett. Anthony Camp. Fred Wachenhusen. Ralph O. Hull. John Davidson, and Allen W. Brennan, all follow workers in the T. O. Metcalf Company One hundred and seventy-seven years of service with Mr. Williamson’s company is represented by this group of men.
At the Memorial Service, which was very largely attended by hosts of associates and friends, the Minister of the Church seemed to sum up the life of the distinguished citizen and friend when he said:
“The memorial of virtue is immortal: When it is present, mankind takes example from it. When it is gone they earnestly desire it. and then he added that “the spirit. the character and the service of such a man now becomes a part of the ongoing life of our community throughout the coming years.”
(All articles were originally published in the Norwood Messenger unless otherwise noted)