Jack E. Williams

Jack E. Williams, 54 ENCINITAS -- Jack E. Williams died unexpectedly last Sunday, October 17, 2010, while on business in Australia. For 26 years, Jack was the face of Paul Ecke Ranch, working with growers world-wide to produce Ecke's famed poinsettias and spring annuals. Known for his technical expertise as well as his dynamic personality, Jack made frequent public appearances on television and radio both here and abroad. He was a popular keynote speaker, heavily involved in educating both industry and the public about plants. He visited greenhouses and trial sites throughout the world. His work took him to Europe, China, Japan, Australia, India, Korea, Africa, Indonesia, South and Central America. His wife of 30 years, Cheryl, said, "The only place Jack didn't go was Antarctica, and if he had lived long enough, he probably would've gotten there." Jack will be missed by his wife, Cheryl; daughter, Bethany; and his son, Stephen. Details of Jack's life and career can be found at www.ecke.com/jack/ or the Jack Williams Memorial Page on facebook. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 30, 2010 at 12 noon at St. James Catholic Church, 623 S. Nardo Ave, Solana Beach, Calif., followed immediately by a reception at the San Diego Botanic Garden (formerly Quail Botanic Garden), 230 Quail Gardens Drive, Encinitas, Calif. 92024. Contributions in Jack's memory may be made to The Williams Trust c/o Citibank,113-A North El Camino Real, Encinitas, Calif. 92024. Sign the Guest Book online obits.nctimes.com