Obituaries

Kent Oliver Williamson, 93, passed away peacefully on March 25, 2026, in Kilmarnock, Virginia. He was born on August 20, 1932, in Washington, D.C., to Roy and Jeannette Williamson. 

Kent lived a life marked by service, family, and kindness. He studied electrical engineering at Virginia Tech before enlisting in the United States Army, where he served in Korea near the end of the Korean War. Following his military service, he embarked on a distinguished career with the CIA, serving in Taiwan, Vietnam, India, Poland, and many other countries, including two years in the mountains of Iran, and a mission in the Sinai Desert which helped secure the 1979 Egypt-Israel Peace Treaty. 

After retiring, Kent settled in the Northern Neck of Virginia, making his home near the small town of Wicomico Church near Kilmarnock. There, he embraced a slower pace of life and found joy in the simple pleasures he loved most — fishing, crabbing, and harvesting oysters. He was a familiar and welcome presence in the community, known for his warmth, easygoing nature, and genuine friendliness.

 Kent was preceded in death by his former wife, Nancy Williamson. He is survived by his sons, Chris Williamson and Mark Williamson; his grandchildren, Megan Williamson and Michael Williamson; and his soulmate, Janett Nelson.

He will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his dedication to his country, and the kindness he showed to everyone he encountered. No services held.