John E Williams Jr

Capt. USN (Ret) John Emerson Williams Jr. passed away on December 23rd, 2023 after a short stay at the Life Care Center and Hospice in Citrus County, Florida. He was 92 yrs old. He was predeceased by his first wife Freida and his daughter Sally. He is survived by his son John, his son-in-law Mike Waitley, his wife Linda, and her 5 adult children; Charlie, Philip, Sam, Anastasia, and Elisabeth. He and Linda have 16 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.

John was born and raised in Elkhart, Indiana on Simonton Lake on the Michigan border where he learned to hunt, fish, water-ski, and thump and steal watermelons. He graduated from Elkhart High school and attended Indiana University for his undergraduate degree. He was accepted into dental school and shortly after enlisted in the US Navy where he served for 27 years. He retired from active duty in 1979 and moved back to Indianapolis where he taught for ten years at the IUPUI Dental school. He then retired to Florida on his dream golf course at Black Diamond Ranch in Lecanto.

Throughout his long life, John's greatest joy was his family. He loved being an uncle to his older brother and younger sisters kids. When it was his turn for children, he became the most devoted father. He was part of the generation where your word was your bond. He set and leaves a high bar for all of us to follow. It was our honor to call him father, friend, teacher, mentor, and husband.

In loving memory from your family.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Habitat for Humanity Citrus County where all funds stay local.