Edward C. Williamson

Edward “Ed” Campbell Williamson, 85, of Sharon, passed away peacefully at home on December 2, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Ed had a steadfast kindness that touched everyone he knew, a generosity of spirit that knew no bounds, and a heart of gold that loved beyond measure. He had two purposes in life, being a devoted family man and a dedicated firefighter.

Born in Norwood, Ed was the son of George and Elizabeth Williamson. He was raised in Norwood along with his sisters, Sally and Anne.

If there was ever a man born to be a firefighter, it was Ed. From a young age he knew he wanted to be a Norwood firefighter. At the age of five, Ed snuck out of the house to chase the fire engines to a brush fire at the intersection of Bond and Nichols Street. As he told the story, the guys humored him and let him try and pull the hose lines before sending him on his way. During his “bike days”, Ed could often be seen riding his bike alongside the fire trucks headed to a call. Before long, the local fire station became his second home; its firefighters his mentors, and its bells and sirens sounds he cherished.

Ed graduated from Norwood High School in 1958, and went on to earn his Associate’s Degree in Fire Protection from Oklahoma State University. While there, he found purpose and camaraderie serving as a student firefighter. And on June 1, 1964, Ed’s childhood dream came true, when he was appointed to the Norwood Fire Department. He went on to serve the department for forty-one years, receiving several commendations for bravery and exceptional service, and serving on the truck committee that designed Engines 2 and 3. Ed served his community with humility, courage and unwavering kindness, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Over the years, Ed remained an active member of the Boston Sparks Association, generously volunteered at the Boston Fire Museum as a tour guide, and continued attending MIFDI’s monthly meetings well into his retirement. A source of pride and joy was an antique Seagrave pumper, which he owned with his fellow firefighters and lifelong friends, Bob Molloy and Bob Devine, which he enjoyed driving in parades across Massachusetts.

Ed met Pat, the love of his life, at a wedding on his 24th birthday. It was a chance encounter that changed everything. Their first date was a movie in Boston, and afterward they followed the BFD to a fire, turning an ordinary night into a small adventure they would never forget. It was then that Ed knew he met his soul mate. They married on May 24, 1969, and the deep love they shared became the heart and foundation of their family.

In time, their family and their joy grew with the arrivals of their daughters, Beth and Becky. Anyone who met Ed knew the love he held for “his girls” and this love was reciprocated fiercely and abundantly. From visiting the NFD to share dinner and chocolate cake or an ice cream during his shift, to camping on Long Lake in Bridgton, Maine, to countless trips to share time at Syracuse University, to countless chats and cups of coffee, the family made memories filled with love and laughter. Ed’s annual reading of “’Twas the Night Before Christmas,” was a simple ritual that has become a family tradition for over 50 years.

The arrival of his grandsons, Thomas and William, added even more laughter, love and treasured moments. Ed absolutely loved and adored them, and they in turn loved and adored their Gramps.

Ed leaves behind a legacy of love. He had a way of bringing comfort to those around him, simply with his presence. May his steady kindness, unconditional love, quiet strength, and gentle, generous spirit continue to guide all those he held dear.

He will be remembered as a loving family member, a loyal friend, and a firefighter whose dedication began long before he ever put on a uniform and continued long after he retired. We will forever hold him close in our hearts.

Ed was predeceased by his parents, George and Elizabeth Williamson and his sister, Elizabeth Anne Martin. He is survived by his sister, Florence “Sally” Williamson and his nephew, David Martin.

Loving husband of Patricia Williamson of Sharon, MA, Ed was the beloved father of Beth Williamson-Ruse and her husband, Kevin Ruse of Mansfield, MA and Becky Williamson and her husband Mark Mercure, of North Attleboro, MA, and the cherished grandfather of Thomas and William Ruse.

Family and friends are cordially invited to attend Visitation on MONDAY, December 8, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. in the KRAW-KORNACK Funeral Home, 1248 Washington Street, Norwood. On TUESDAY, December 9, 2025, a Funeral Procession will gather at 10:30a.m. at the funeral home, departing promptly at 11:00 a.m. Interment in Highland Cemetery, Norwood.