Jerry Ish Williams

Jerry Ish Williams, 89, passed away peacefully at his home in Chandler, Oklahoma, on Monday morning, August 25, 2025.

Jerry was born on April 22, 1936, in Lexington, Kentucky, to Thomas Milton and Mary Louise (Littrell) Williams. He grew up in Lexington and, at a young age, accepted Jesus as his Savior at Grace Baptist Church.

In 1953, Jerry graduated from Clark County High School in Winchester, Kentucky, where he played basketball. After high school, he proudly served his country in the United States Army. He later earned an associate degree in business from the University of Kentucky.

On August 16, 1970, Jerry married Mary Elizabeth Banks in Seco, Kentucky. Together, they built a loving marriage that spanned 55 years, celebrating their anniversary just days before his passing.

Jerry began his career in insurance with American Mutual in Lexington. In 1989, he and Mary relocated to Chandler, where he worked as an underwriting manager for NAICO until his retirement.

A devout and faithful Christian, Jerry was deeply committed to serving the Lord and his community. He served as treasurer at David's Fork Baptist Church and as a deacon at Glen's Creek Baptist Church, both in Kentucky, as well as treasurer at First Baptist Church in Chandler. Over the years, he also taught junior high Sunday school, sang at the Chandler Nursing Home, and faithfully volunteered for more than 20 years at the God & People’s Food Pantry in Chandler.

Outside of work and ministry, Jerry enjoyed watching sports, especially Cincinnati Reds baseball, and in his younger years, playing softball.

Jerry will be remembered as a kind and genuine man with a quick wit and sharp sense of humor. He had a gift for making others feel seen and valued, often checking in on old friends and even the friends of his children. His legacy is one of faith, service, and love for others.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a son, two brothers, and his sister. Jerry is survived by his devoted wife, Mary; brother Gil Williams and wife Julie of Florida; sister-in-law Debbie Williams of Kentucky; daughter Mary Rossdeutscher and husband Karl of South Carolina; son David Williams and wife Cheryl of Louisiana; three grandsons: Wesley, Josiah, and Brody; and two great-grandsons: Trey and Oliver.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Chandler Fire Department or God & People’s Pantry. Both organizations have meant a lot to Jerry and Mary over the years.