John Lou "Jack" Williams, Jr. Obituary (1935

John Lou Williams, Jr. (Jack) was born on Sept. 4, 1935 in Lunenburg County, Virginia and became the first of two children born to Katherine Hill and John L. Williams, Sr. He received his education in the Lunenburg county schools. John dedicated his life to Christ at an early age and joined Saint Matthew's Baptist Church and served as an usher and choir member. He later joined Oak Grove Baptist Church where he was ordained as a deacon and continued to serve until being called home by the Lord. His testimonies in church were inspiring, uplifting and welcomed by those in attendance. His passion for music and singing were highlighted during the 80's through 90's as he traveled across the Eastern Atlantic states and local church communities with "The Voices of Harmony." His favorite songs were: "There's a Bright Side Somewhere", "One More River to Cross, Lord." John spent his entire life working in Lunenburg county. He worked at several manufacturing companies before joining the Lunenburg county public school system as a custodian in 1968. He officially retired from Kenbridge Primary school after serving 45 yrs. After retiring, he served as custodian and grounds keeper for Saint Matthew's Baptist Church from 2013 through 2017. During that time, the community recognized him as a keeper of God's property. No matter the season, his commitment to work was unstoppable. He was a hard worker and often asked to work from sun up to sun down. His tireless work ethics lasted until the golden age of 81. Working hard was a way of life for him until the Lord called him to rest on May 9. 2018 at Heritage Hall Nursing Home Blackstone, Virginia. John is preceded in death by his parents, Katherine Hill and John L. Williams, Sr.; his wife of 55 yrs. Queen Ester Williams; sister, Gloria Hazelwood. He is survived by four sons: Larry (Jeneane), Jerry (Janice), John (Estela) and Jeffrey; one daughter, Brenda Eppes; eleven grand-children: Loraine (Von), Laticia (Edward Rosario), De'Sha (Kory Heard), Anthony, Christopher, Danielle, Julian, Ellis, Latoya, Rodney, Rachuard; three great-grandchildren: Kyrah, Edwin, KarLeigh Ann; two sisters: Hattie Mae Harper and Cordelia Hopson; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends. Funeral Service: May 15, 2018 @ 1:00 PM at Saint Matthew's Baptist Church, 219 North Broad St. Kenbridge, Virginia 23944: Reverend Ricky Allen, Sr., Eulogy; Reverend Yvonne W. Bridgeforth, Officiating Interment: Oak Grove Baptist Church Cemetery; 127 Oak Grove Rd., Kenbridge, Virginia 23944