Roger Williams 1924-2011
Virtuoso pianist Roger Williams, who played for nine U.S. presidents, died of pancreatic cancer on Saturday at the age of 87.
Williams’ 1955 hit Autumn Leaves was the only piano instrumental to ever reach #1 on the Billboard pop charts. It remains the best-selling piano single of all time with over 2 million sales.
The talented stage performer played for every commander in chief from Harry S. Truman to George H.W. Bush. His last trip to the White House was in 2008, when he entertained Laura Bush and her luncheon guests with a selection of his most popular pieces.
Williams was a particular favorite of Jimmy Carter because both men were born on the same day. When they turned 80, the pianist performed a 12-hour marathon at the Jimmy Carter Library and Museum in Atlanta.
The talented musician received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award by Steinway & Sons.
In March 2011, Mr. Williams was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He died on October 8, one week after his 87th birthday. He is survived by his daughters, Laura Fisher and Alice Jung, and five grandchildren.
He performed his famous Autumn Leaves at the Crystal Cathedral in 2008, as seen in the video below:
Photo: WENN