John S. Williams
John Small “Big John” Williams, Jr., 89, of Lynchburg, passed away Saturday, February 28, 2026, at his residence.
Born March 25, 1936 in Washington, North Carolina, he was the son of the late John S. Williams and Eunice Garis Williams.
John proudly joined the North Carolina National Guard at the age of 17. After graduating from Washington High School, he entered the United States Army, completing Jump School in 1954 and serving with the 11th Airborne Division in Germany until 1957. He held life memberships in both the 11th Airborne Division and the 82nd Airborne Division and remained deeply devoted to his fellow paratroopers throughout his life. In 2006, he served as chairman of the Blue Ridge All Airborne Chapter when they hosted paratroopers from across the United States, Canada, England, Scotland, and Mexico.
For many years, John worked as an insurance agent in Lynchburg and was the owner of John Williams Insurance Company. He was very active in his community and was a member of the Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels, Edward N. Eubank Masonic Lodge #262, The Exchange Club of Lynchburg, Kazim Shriners of Roanoke, American Legion Post #16, and the Marine Corps League. John was also an avid Liberty University sports fan and was a member of the Liberty Flames Club. Known for his generous spirit and larger-than-life personality, “Big John” made friends wherever he went.
Thrice married, John is survived by his loving wife, Linda Burford Williams. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Hazel Raines Williams, and his second wife, Eloise Morrison Williams.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his daughter, Kathryn W. Staton, and his granddaughter, Garris Elizabeth Staton (Christian Moore); his great grandson, Thomas Moore and his brother, Raymond Earl Williams (Judy) of Washington, NC.
A service celebrating his life will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at Whitten Timberlake Chapel. Interment will follow at Fort Hill Memorial Park.
The family will receive friends for one hour prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to a charity of your choice.
