Saratoga Springs, NY – Joseph P. Williams, 76, passed away Wednesday (Jan. 10, 2024) with his loving wife Janet at his side, following a courageous two year+ battle with bone cancer.

Born on July 8, 1947 in Saratoga Springs, he was a son of the late Frank P. and Mary Snyder Williams and a lifelong resident. A proud 1965 graduate of the former St. Peter's Academy and an even prouder 1969 graduate of the University of Notre Dame.

Joe began his post college career as a salesman for Royal Globe Insurance Co. in New York City. He left New York after two years to manage the family business, Williams & Furey Liquors in downtown Saratoga Springs. After the business closed, he was a well-known bartender at the Gaslight Lounge for several years.

He became politically active in the 1980's and was an early supporter of Ed Valentine's campaign for Commissioner of Accounts. Following the election, Joe was appointed assistant city Assessor, a role he held for over twenty years, having a major impact on property values as Saratoga Springs became the city known for "health, history and horse and the August place to be".

After retirement, Joe returned to bartending at various establishments, developing a loyal following and enabling him to pursue his final and most enjoyable career; a clocker for NYRA at Saratoga Racecourse. He loved his earl morning stints alongside his fellow timers, Bob Hamlin and the late Dave Lynett for over ten years.

Joe and Janet were married by Judge Frank Williams on July 3, 2003 in Congress Park. They enjoyed the ensuing twenty-seven years together, especially the sixteen years they traveled to the Bahamas aboard Royal Caribbean and stayed at Sandals Resorts, with all meals and drinks provided! Joe savored Janet's excellent meals at home and rooting for the Fighting Irish during each season of the school's successful sports teams, especially football. He was a member, Governor Emeritus and past president (1989) of the Saratoga Springs Friendly Sons of St. Patrick and a 46 year member of Saratoga-Wilton BPO Elks Lodge 161.

In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by his brother, the Hon. Frank B. Williams.

Survivors include his wife, Janet; two sisters, Margaret A. (John) Irving and Mary G. (Dennis) Eisenhauer; nephews, Brady F. Williams, Aek and Luke Eisenhauer; and nieces Christen Williams, Shanley Henry and Casey Irving-Barron.

The family would like to express their gratitude to Saratoga Oncology/Hematology, Dr. Liebers and Staff for their genuine kindness and care of Joe over the past two years.

Friends may call from 9:30am to 11am Tuesday (Jan. 16) in the historic Church of St. Peter, 241 Broadway, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in the church at 11am. Burial will follow in St. Peter's Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the direction of the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing and Cunniff Funeral Home, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs. Where online remembrances may be made at burkefuneralhome.com.