Four-time Oscar nominee, Robin Williams, was married three times, but his longest marriage was with his second wife, Marsha Garces Williams, who worked for him. Here is everything to know about the actor's former child's nanny.
Marsha Garces Williams's time in the spotlight began in the 1980s, as soon as she was romantically linked to the "Mrs. Doubtfire" star. Marsha has since been associated with Robin despite their split.
However, the actor's second wife is a hardworking woman who invests time in charity and philanthropy. But is that all there is to know about her?
Robin Williams and wife Marsha during American Museum of the Moving Image Salutes Billy Crystal at The Waldorf Astoria in New York City, New York, United States. | Source: Getty Images
WHO IS MARSHA GARCES WILLIAMS?
On June 18, Marsha turned 66— she was born in 1956 in Shorewood, Wisconsin. Although she is a US citizen, she has Filipino-Finnish background.
As a young woman, Marsha trained to become a painter but later worked as a waitress. Before marrying Robin, she was employed by his first wife, Valerie, to care for their son, Zachary.
Shortly after Robin divorced, the duo became married. Their romance created sensational gossip, as many wondered if their affair had ruined the actor's home.
Marsha Garces Williams attends the opening night of "The Real Americans" at the Lynn Redgrave Theatre on March 18, 2014, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
Despite the rumors, one thing was clear, Robin and Marsha were in love and had a special connection. The onscreen legend influenced his second wife's career.
First, she worked as his assistant secretary for two years, and later, as a film producer. Her credits include "Mrs. Doubtfire," "Patch Adams," and "Dead Poets Society."
Marsha is also a hardworking, protective, and loving woman. Apart from her successes in the film industry, she is a philanthropist who delights in helping the needy.
Marsha Williams attends the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation's A Magical Evening 20th Anniversary Gala at The New York Marriott Marquis on November 17, 2010, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
After her ex-husband's untimely death in 2014, she decided to sell some of the art collections in their former home, and proceeds from the auction were shared among charities with ties to the family. Marsha told Sotheby's that some of the charities that benefitted from them were The Reeve Foundation and Challenged Athletes.
She explained that as a couple, she accompanied Robin to events hosted by The Reeve Foundation. "They are part of our family, and we'll always support that group." She said.
Additionally, the entire family, including the former couple and their kids, showed support by attending functions held by Challenged Athletes. In the end, Marsha added, "All the kids are still involved with the organization. There is an endowment in Robin's name, and we help them do events and raise money."
Marsha Williams attends the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation's A Magical Evening 20th Anniversary Gala at The New York Marriott Marquis on November 17, 2010 in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
MARSHA GARCES WILLIAM INITIALLY WORKED FOR ROBIN WILLIAM
As mentioned above, she worked for the actor after meeting him in 1984. Once news of their romance became public, fans were puzzled and curious to discover if Marsha was a home wrecker.
The only person who knew the truth asides from the former couple was Valerie, Robin's first wife. However, it got told more than two decades before she publicly admitted it.
Valerie claimed that her previous nanny was not to blame for her divorce. She explained that her marriage with Robin was already over, as they split before Marsha started dating the "Jumanji" actor.
Robin Willliams and wife Marsha Garces Williams during "Man of the Year" Los Angeles Premiere - Red Carpet at Mann's Chinese Theater in Hollywood, California, United States. | Source: Getty Images
A few months after becoming the new Mrs. Williams, Marsha gave birth to the actor's second child; soon, another baby joined the family.
The pair remained married for almost twenty years, making it his longest marriage. In 2008, Marsha filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences. Two years later, it became official.
Robin Williams and Marsha Garces Williams at The Andre Agassi Charitable Foundation's 8th "Grand Slam for Children" Fundraiser - Dinner and Auction. | Source: Getty Images
MARSHA WILLIAMS IS A LOVING MOTHER TO TWO CHILDREN
Although Marsha had two kids with the actor, she remained a loving stepmother to his first child, Zachary. The duo shared an excellent relationship. As expected, Robin's ex-wife is close to her kids, and she instilled a passion for working hard work in them.
The actor's entire brood is impressively creative, and none live off their father's fame. Zachary inherited his dad's acting genes and continued to carry the older actor's legacy. He is also a father to two kids, whom he shares with his wife, Olivia June.
Zelda Williams, Marsha Williams and Cody Alan Williams attend the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation's A Magical Evening 20th Anniversary Gala at The New York Marriott Marquis on November 17, 2010 in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
Similarly, his younger siblings are doing fine in their respective lives and career. Marsha's firstborn, Zelda, is a notable actress, writer, and producer.
Her film credits include "Dark/Web," "The Legend of Korra," "Jane the Virgin," and "Dead of Summer." The youngest of the pack, Cody, born in 1991, toed a different line than his siblings. He is a video creator and stage producer.
Marsha Garces and Zachary Pym Williams attend The Christopher And Dana Reeve Foundation's "A Magical Evening" Gala at Cipriani Wall Street on November 19, 2015, New York City. | Source: Getty Images
MARSHA GARCES WILLIAMS WAS HEARTBROKEN WHEN ROBIN WILLIAMS DIED
In 2014, Robin passed away after ending his life. It was later revealed that the actor had suffered a rare disease for a long time. Robin is survived by his three kids and third wife, Susan Schneider, whom he married in 2011. Following the tragedy, everyone in the family was disheartened.
His kids, widow, and ex-wife released a statement about the devastating news. Marsha admitted that the information wrenched her heart. She added:
"Please remember the gentle, loving, generous — and yes, brilliant and funny — man that was Robin Williams. My arms are wrapped around our children as we attempt to grapple with celebrating the man we love, while dealing with this immeasurable loss."
Actor and comedian Robin Williams poses for a portrait circa 1999 in Los Angeles, California.| Source: Getty Images
Indeed, Robin Williams was a man who wore his heart on his sleeves. In return for his kindness, he was loved by fans, friends, his kids, his wife, and even his former partner.
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