Robert Michael "Mike" Williams

Robert Michael “Mike” Williams, 72, of Saint Marks, Florida, passed away on June 17, 2023, after a water accident. He was born in McIntosh, Florida, and grew up in Saint Marys, Georgia. He is predeceased by his parents, Robert “Bob” and Martha Williams, and his son, Robert Justin Williams. Mike leaves behind his loving partner, Jeanette “Jet” Netwal; daughters Amanda Williams, Saukville, WI, and Suzanne Williams, Asheville, NC; grandchildren Zane Tinney, Ethan Williams, and Hailey Wilson; sisters Jane Buffkin, Locust Grove, GA, and Beth (Tom) Mason, Riverview, FL; brother Mark (Laurie) Williams, St. Petersburg, FL; and many nieces and nephews. Mike graduated from Camden County High School, where he was active in academic and sports activities. He attended Georgia Tech and Abraham Baldwin Agricultural School before beginning his career as an electrician with the IBEW Local #177, in Jacksonville. He was elected as the Business Manager of Local #177 in 1990; as President of the Florida Building and Construction Trades Council in 1998; and has served as the President of the Florida AFLCIO since 2009. In these positions, Mike was involved in impactful legislative activities that improved the lives of 1.6 million union members and their families. In his free time, Mike loved riding his Harley, playing music, boating, and attending Florida Gator games with his family (a tradition started by his parents). A Celebration of Life will be held for family and friends on Saturday, July 8, 2023, at 10:00 a.m., at the Wakulla River Park, 8 City Park Avenue, Saint Marks, FL. A professional remembrance and recognition of Mike’s contributions to labor will be held on August 19, 2023, at the Prime Osborn Convention Center in Jacksonville, FL at 6:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Mike’s honor to Fight For Florida, Inc., an organization he created and led, 135 S. Monroe Street, Tallahassee, FL 32301. Breanna Green of Bevis Funeral Home (850-385-2193 or www.bevisfh.com) is assisting the family with their arrangements.

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Robert Michael "Mike" Williams

October 27, 1950 - June 17, 2023