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Penn State national champion, ex-Philadelphia Eagle dead at 61 after cancer battle

Bob Williams, a former standout tight end who helped Penn State win a national title before spending time with three NFL teams, died on July 2.

He was 61.

Williams, who was a native of Easton, had reportedly been diagnosed with glioblastoma, an aggressive and incurable form of brain cancer, according to his obit.

“Bob was a proud graduate of Notre Dame High School, where his love for football first took root,” his obit read. “He went on to play at Penn State University — a team and school he supported for life — before fulfilling his dream of playing in the NFL with the Buffalo Bills, Seattle Seahawks, and the Philadelphia Eagles.”

His obit said that he moved from Pennsylvania to South Carolina five years ago to spend more time with family.

Williams was a freshman when Penn State beat No. 1 Georgia in the 1982 Sugar Bowl to win the national title. He was drafted by the Bills in the seventh round of the 1986 NFL Draft.

“Saturdays in the fall were sacred to Dad — he never missed a Penn State football game, proudly wearing his blue and white and cheering as if he were right there in the stands,” the obit read. “But even more important to him than college football was showing up for his kids. Whether he was standing on the sidelines with a smile or coaching from the bench, he was always there — present, encouraging, and proud. For eight unforgettable years, Dad dedicated his time and heart to coaching youth spots, where he left a lasting mark on every child he mentored. His influenced extended far beyond the field, shaping young hearts and leading a legacy of kindness, strength and impact that will never be forgotten”

You can read more about Williams and his life in his obituary, here.

A celebration of life service is planned for him on July 19 at Sacred Heart of Bethlehem in Pennsylvania.

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