Obituary – Justin Neil Williamson
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Editor's note: The Citizen staff was saddened to learn of the recent death of Justin Williamson, who was profiled in an October 2024 story in the Citizen. To read "Life with Justin," click here.
Justin Neil Williamson, age 45, passed away May 29, 2025, in Henrico, Virginia, ending his lifelong struggle with the rare genetic disease, Niemann-Pick C (NPC).
As a result of the NPC, Justin was faced with many challenges that affected his mind as well as his body. Despite these challenges, he always maintained a positive outlook on life. Justin was friendly to everyone he met, spreading joy and sharing his sense of humor.
Born March 1, 1980, in Rochester, New York, Justin played football and was a Little League catcher in his youth. A lifelong Raiders fan, he enjoyed riding his bike, watching sports on TV, and playing guitar in a band with his friends.
After moving to Virginia, Justin attended school in Henrico County and graduated from Godwin High School. He was extremely proud of his accomplishment, and would tell everyone, “I graduated from Godwin in '99!”
In adulthood, as his symptoms became more apparent, he was diagnosed with NPC. Justin attended Circle Center Adult Day Services, where he received excellent care from all the staff, and enjoyed coloring pictures and writing lists. A self-described "gentle man,” he had an infectious smile and an unforgettable laugh. He left a lasting imprint on anyone who met him, and will be greatly missed.
Justin is survived by his father, Erwin “Hank” Williamson (Laura), his mother, Alice Bare, his sister Tracy Williamson (Marvin), nephews Tahkai and Maddox Green, and a large extended family in upstate New York.
A celebration of Justin's life will be held June 10, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church, 903 Forest Avenue, Richmond, VA 23229. A memorial service will also be held in New York at a later date.
Memorial gifts are welcome and may be made to Circle Center in Richmond (https://circlecenterva.org/ways-to-help/donate/, or to the National Niemann-Pick Disease Foundation.
