John Robert Williams

John R. Williams January 3, 1950 - September 4, 2015.  Glory shouted when its newest resident arrived with his new wings.   Eyes shining, he was greeted with love by his family who knew he was coming. There waiting for him was his mother and father, Samuel and Birdie Williams, his sister Vonda King and his two big brothers, William Henry and Norval.  Also waiting to greet him was his Mother and Father in law,  Addie and Eddie Driver along with his brother in law, Dwight.

John was the husband of Francine (Driver) Williams and the proud father of four girls, Tracy Williams, Vonda Williams, Reba Williams and Kari (Williams) Dotson.  He was blessed with 11 grandchildren, Sierra, Anthony. Gary, John, Davonna, Savannah, MarShaum, Teshylia,  Skylar, Kierra and Derrick and 8 great-grandchildren.  Other loving family members who survive  include his siblings Samuel (Judy) Williams, Gilbert (Pat) Williams , Larry (Rosie) Williams and Howard (Mary) Buchanon, brothers and sisters in love, Judith Williams, Sareena Williams, Eddie (Helen) Driver, Judy Driver, Gail (Tyree) Dickerson, Ruth Driver, Nancy Driver, Vicky Driver and Jack Driver.  He also leaves a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.

John’s joy came from serving the Lord.  As a member of Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church there was no task too big or too small.  He loved the Lord and he loved his pastor, Pastor Ray Owens.  One of his proudest moments was being ordained as a deacon.  He also was very instrumental in the local production of the passion play “I Am He”, he served as President of the South Bend Eastside Reunion, he served on the scholarship committee,  sang in the Men’s Choir and he thoroughly enjoyed fellowshipping with his fellow deacons.

 John retired from the South Bend Police department as a Captain in 2007.  While on the department he served on the Honor Guard, Minority recruitment, C.O.P. program and as PIO Officer (Public Information Officer).  However people were continuously getting him mixed up with his brother Norval who served as PIO when he was on the department.  When people called him Norva l he would proudly reply:  “I am John, the handsome one.”   After retiring from the South Bend Police Department he worked for South Bend Community Schools and at the South Bend Water Works until he became ill.

Visitation will be held at Cobb Funeral Home, Friday September 11 from 5:00 pm until 8:00 pm.  Service will be held at Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church 1862 N. Olive Street on Saturday, September12 with visitation beginning at 10 am and service at 11am.  Interment will follow at Highland Cemetery.

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