Lasting Memories

Philip C. Williams
Sept. 30, 1931-June 26, 2014
Menlo Park, California

Phil Williams, influential University Architect & Director of Planning at Stanford University, died unexpectedly June 26.

From 1975 to 1992 he set his imprint on the campus with architectural guidelines affecting over 35 major buildings and open spaces, and oversaw two General Use Plan updates.

Phil cared deeply for historic preservation of the venerable campus and the essence of the 1880s original campus plan, the quality of landscaped "people places," and mentoring a younger generation of planners.

Talented artistically in many areas from ceramics to photography, he was known for his long-range vision, consistency, wry wit and his multitude of short, pithy remarks, such as "If they don't understand you, you haven't said anything."

Chicago-born, he earned both a BA and MA in architecture from Oklahoma State. After military service, he joined Caudill Rowlett Scott in Houston as a university specialist, rising to partner and senior vice president.

Survivors include his wife of 41 years, Ellen, also a longtime Stanford employee; his brother, Jim; his three children ? David (Laurie Peller), Laurie Von Sternberg (Rusty) and Sherrie Winokur (Doug); and five grandchildren.