John W. Williams

1951 - 2023

John (Jack) W. Williams, 71, of Scott Twp., passed away Saturday morning at Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, Pa., after a battle with heart disease.

Jack was born in Scranton, Pa., on June 1, 1951, the son of the late Franklin and Mildred "Jane" (White) Williams. The oldest of four children, Jack graduated from Scranton Tech High School and shortly after enlisted in the United States Navy (1969-1975), where he was honorably discharged after serving six years.

Nearing the end of his naval service, Jack met his wife, Nancy J. Graham, in which they enjoyed 48 years of marriage together. Also at this time, he began his career with the Pepsi Bottling Group that spanned more than 35 years. During Jack's time with Pepsi, he served as a union representative, eventually being elected union president to represent himself and fellow co-workers.

Jack and Nancy had three children, in which he is survived by his daughter, Tara J. Williams; and sons, John D. Williams and wife, Liza; Eric W. Williams and his wife, Valerie. Whether it was driving the entire family to gymnastics meets, working on equipment in his barn or running back and forth between sporting events, he was always there and offering support.

It was important to Jack to give back and support his community. He was actively involved in Lakeland Chiefs football, where he held assistant and head coaching positions for the Jr. Chiefs, served as president of the Lakeland Jr. Chiefs Football League, and supported the varsity program in a variety of roles. Jack was a member at of the Montdale United Methodist Church.

Post retirement from Pepsi, Jack enjoyed his second career working at Williams' Diesel in Mayfield, Pa. It was there that you would see Jack going on tows, running for parts, or delegating from his favorite chair.

Jack is survived by his four grandchildren, Matthew, Eva, Lilly and Cole; a true joy in his life was that he was able to spend time with each, attending family events, football and cheerleading.

Jack is also survived by his brother, William D. "Bill" Williams, of Scott Twp.; and brother-in-law, Otey Haden, of Richmond, Va.; nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his sisters, Susan McNiff and Linda Haden; and brother-in-law, Bud McNiff.

A memorial service will be conducted Friday at noon in the Michael P. Glinsky Funeral Home, 129 Grant St., Olyphant, Pa. Friends may call Thursday from 4 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home.

Arrangements by Duffy & Snowdon Funeral Homes. For online condolences, visit www.duffyandsnowdon.com.