Cecil Owen Williamson of Bay City, TX, passed away on Monday, May 30, 2005 at the age of 96. He was born September 11, 1908 in Starr, OK, the only child of Leonard and Elsie Williamson, and was raised in Muskogee, OK, by his mother and grandparents after his father's death in 1917. He was a loving husband, father, grand-father, and friend to many. He will be greatly missed.

Cecil began his 47 year career in the petro-chemical industry with Pure Oil Company in Oklahoma at the age of 18. He later worked for Philllips Petroleum Company, transferring to the west coast during World War II, and eventually settled with his family in Bay City in 1947 to help start the Phillips refinery in Old Ocean. He retired from Phillips in 1973 after a long and productive career.

Cecil was a active sportsman throughout his life. He was among Bay City Little League's founders and was a team manager during its first season. He remained active in Bay City Little League and in teenage baseball in various capacities into the 1970's. He was an active member of First United Methodist Church and of the Wesley Men's Bible Class.

Cecil was married to Chloe Harlan Williamson on September 4, 1932,who preceeded him in death on July 16, 1986. He is survived by their two children and their spouses: Michael O. Williamson and his wife Kay of Houston, and Shelby Williamson Estlinbaum and her husband John of Bay City. He is also survived by three grandchildren: Craig and Mike Estlinbaum of Bay City, and Jodi W. Matteson of Houston: and by five great-grandchildren: Kristin and Cole Matteson of Houston; and Drew, Matthew, and Shelby Estlinbaum of Bay City.

The family will receive visitors from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM Wednesday, June 1, 2005 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 AM Thursday, June 2, 2005 at the First United Methodist Church Chapel in Bay City, with Rev. Pauline Harvey officiating. Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery.

The family would like to express special gratitude to the staff and residents of the Legacy Retirement Community for the wonderful love, company, and care given to Cecil during his final years. Deep appreciation for his care is also extended to Dr. Dane Simons, M.D.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Capital Building Campaign at the First United Methodist Church, 2300 Ave. H, Bay City, TX 77414.

Arrangements are with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home, Bay City, TX (979) 245-4613.