Lauren “Larry” Spencer Williams, born on August 17, 1937 in New Haven, CT, passed away peacefully in Vero Beach, FL on June 19, 2021. Larry grew up in Milford, CT where he attended the Hopkins School before graduating from Yale University. He was a member of the Varsity Football team and DKE fraternity during his time at Yale. Larry completed his education with an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.
After a brief stint in finance at Chemical Bank in New York City, Larry found his calling in marketing. He joined Philip Morris in 1964 and led the award-winning Virginia Slims product launch and tagline “You’ve come a long way, baby!” He married the love of his life, Judy, on April 30th, 1965, and together they raised three boys. In 1971, Larry became the Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Miller Brewing Company in Milwaukee. At Miller, he was responsible for the launch of Lite Beer and the tagline “Tastes Great, Less Filling”. In 1986, Larry became President and COO of the NutraSweet Company where he branded the sweetener with its iconic red and white swirl and blue table packets. Larry retired in 1993 and moved with Judy to John’s Island in Vero Beach, Florida.
Larry became involved in the Vero Beach community as an active supporter of the Riverside Theater and VNA Hospice House. He also served on the board at John’s Island Club. Larry dedicated himself to caring for Judy during her battle with Alzheimer’s that ultimately took her life in 2018. He will be remembered for his charm, quick wit, generosity, and enduring love for his family and friends.
Larry was preceded in death by his older sister, Patsy, and brother Peter. He is survived by three sons, Andy, Scott, and Jeff, their wives Tricia, Laurie, and Jennifer and 12 grandchildren: Alexandra, Olivia, Spencer, Kees, Matthew, Connor, Bennett, Griffin, Caroline, Alexander, Mia, and Quinn.