Robert grew up in Roxbury. His family was one of the original families of what was then called Albany Street/Orchard Park. He obtained his education in the Boston Public School system graduation from the Trade School. Robert, affectionately known as Diz by his peers, spent his younger years as a member of The Drum and Bugle Corps until his early twenties when he joined the Marine Corps.

After returning from the Marines, he married the late Barbara Williams and established a career working for Brinks Security.

On July 7th, 1977, Robert had his amazing daughter Rekiya Penton with his then partner Cynthia Penton.

After so many years as a Bostonian he later decided to settle down in Savannah, GA with his partner Mary Jackson. He resided there for 20+ years until he returned to Boston in March 2023.

Robert was preceded in death by his sisters Dorothy Hardy, Lois Newsome (Howard), Gloria Williams (Raymond), Joan Williams, Shirley Williams; and brother John Williams (Deloris) and Ralph Williams; nephew Craig A. Williams and niece Deniere Williams.

Robert leaves to cherish his memory his daughter Rekiya Penton, her partner Leila Carter, their children Ty and Nailah Carter; on nephew/brother, Lester V. Williams, four nieces Deborah Albury, Karen Maund, Andrea Newsome, Pamela Austin, and a host of great nieces and nephews.