Elmer F. "Al" Williams, age 70, of State College, PA, passed away unexpectedly on March 12, 2017, in Pittsburgh, PA.

Al was born in Lock Haven, PA, on October 18, 1946, to Elmer F. Williams, Sr. and Betty (Gramley) Williams. He was preceded in death by his parents as well as a brother, Tom A. Williams.

After graduating from Bucktail High School in 1965, Al pursued his post-high school education first at Mohawk Valley Community College in Utica, New York, his Bachelor's degree in Electronics Engineering, and Master's degree in Computer Science from George Washington University in Washington, D.C.

Al moved from Renovo, PA, to Oneida, New York, in 1966, and worked at the Oneida Silverware factory. In the mid-1970's, he moved to Washington, D.C. and began his career working at the Naval Research Lab where he conducted research to defend Navy ships and airplanes against enemy threats. His responsibilities at NRL grew and enabled him to lead as Section Head of the NRL TEW Advanced Techniques Branch Digital Technology Section at the Lab for 20 of his 26 years while employed there. His skills allowed him to work with NATO and other nations to institute the Navy's mission.

A life-time member of the IEEE, he was also a committee member of AIPR, a prestigious position in which he kept abreast of the latest technological developments needed by the Navy.

Al married Peggy Horner Williams on June 6, 1988. He is survived by his three children, Michele Snyder (Chuck) Pittsburgh, PA; Kevin (Amy) Williams Charlotte, NC; and Lori Levin (Steve) Manhattan, KS. He has six grandchildren, Andy and Katie Snyder; Trevor and Zachary Williams; and Amy and Ethan Levin. He is also survived by his three brothers, Charles R., Ray E., and Hank D. Williams, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

An avid walker, he also enjoyed playing golf, gardening, being outdoors and spending time with his many friends and family. Al delighted in frequent visits with his children and grandchildren, while his career afforded him extensive travel to many countries.

Al was loved by many; his patience, intelligence, and wit will be dearly missed.

A celebration of Al's life will be held on Saturday, March 18th, 2017, 11:00am - 12:30pm at Mark D. Heintzelman Funeral and Cremation Services - 1034 Benner Pike, State College, PA. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions may be made to the Leukemia Research Foundation, or the American Heart Association in memory of Elmer F. Williams.