John David Williams

John David Williams, 75, of Watkinsville, passed away peacefully on July 11, 2025, surrounded by his loving family, due to complications from cardiac surgery.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Byron and Mildred Williams, and his brother, Bob. He is survived by the mother of his children, Martha Elder Williams; his daughters, Erin (Craig) Copelan and Tiffany (Nate) Woods; his brother, Chuck (Beth) Williams; and his three dear grandchildren, Olivia, Maggie, and Deacon.

A proud graduate of Oconee County High School (1968) and the University of Georgia (1980 & 1981), David dedicated his professional life to community banking, but his true passion was in agriculture, particularly cattle production, a field in which he earned both bachelor's and master's degrees from UGA's College of Agriculture. David was also a proud veteran of the United States Army, honorably serving two tours of duty in Vietnam as a Combat Engineer.

David's life was significantly shaped by his deep commitment to community service. He served on the Oconee County Board of Education, the Oconee Farm Bureau Board, and the Walton EMC Roundup Board. He also chaired the Oconee Chamber of Commerce for two separate terms. A faithful member of local VFW Post 9147, David was instrumental in orchestrating the land swap that allowed ESP to build its new facility on the former VFW site in Watkinsville, while ensuring the iconic VFW building remained. He was also a devoted member and former board chairman of Antioch Christian Church. David cherished Oconee County, making it his home for all 75 years of his life, except for his time in the military service.

David was profoundly loved by his family, friends, church, community, fellow soldiers, and the staff and patrons of the Suncatcher Cafe.

A celebration of life will be Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at 4:00 PM at Antioch Christian Church with Revs. Michael Woelfl and Jim Jacobs officiating. The family requests casual attire. Following the service, all friends and family are invited to a reception at 5:30 PM at the Thomas Cotton Gin on Greensboro Highway. David will be laid to rest in a private interment with military honors at Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, GA.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts are welcomed to the Antioch Christian Church's Judy Giles Scholarship Fund (PO Box 1273, Watkinsville, GA 30677) and the Oconee Veteran’s Memorial Foundation (PO Box 1836, Watkinsville, GA 30677).

Lord and Stephens Funeral Home, West, Watkinsville, is in charge of arrangements.www.lordandstephens.com