Robert Lee Williams

May 12, 1931 - January 19, 2021

Williams, Robert Lee "Bob" age 89, born May 12, 1931, in Pensacola, Florida, passed away at home in Rosemount, MN on January 19, 2021. Visitation: Progressive Baptist Church, 1505 Burns Ave., St. Paul 55106 on Thurs., Feb. 4th from 9:00 am 10:00 am. *A private service to follow reviewal at 10:00 a.m. Bob was most noteably known as the first Black to play for the Minneapolis Lakers and one of 7 Black players in the NBA. Bob spent his off-season from the Lakers, traveling world-wide with the Harlem Globtrotters and with his long- time friend and fellow legend the late Meadowlark Lemon. Bob and his wife of 69 years, Marietta had the distinct pleasure of meeting Kobe Bryant of the Los Angeles Lakers in Minneapolis during Kobe's farewell game against the Timberwolves in 2017. Bob co-founded the Fellowship of Christian Athletes for the State of MN and was inducted into their Hall of Faith for his many years of volunteer lead activities in MN. Bob was a former member of Hospitality House for Intercity Boys and Girls Club and served as their Chairman for 15 years. He also served as a Deacon for 20 years, most recently at Progressive Baptist Church, St. Paul, where he was one of the founding members. A special thank you to Fort Snelling National Cemetery staff for going the extra mile. As a result of Bob's passion for working with youth, in lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made at givemn.org (search for "find a cause to support" for the following organizations: Progressive Baptist Church (Boys and Girls Youth Center) or Hospitality House Youth Development Mpls. A live-stream of the service can be viewed at: progressive baptist churchmn.com/ Cards may be sent to Estes Funeral Chapel, 2201 Plymouth Ave. N., Minneapolis, MN 55411. In lieu of flowers the family would like donations at givemn.org and given to the following organizations: Progressive Baptist Church St. Paul - Youth Center Hospitality House Minneapolis Youth Development