John Cowman Williams

John Cowman Williams, 84, of Wilmington, Ohio went to be with the Lord Monday, August 14, 2023.  His beloved wife of 61 years, Nancy Ann Wahl Williams, survives. 

He was born October 13, 1938 in Greene County, Ohio, son of the late Ernest and Margery Cowman Williams.  He was a graduate of Wilmington High School and attended Wilmington College and the American Institute of Banking.  Mr. Williams served in the United States Army from 1959 to 1962.  During this time, he served a tour in Korea.

John was the founder and owner of Williams Tire and Auto Center.  Upon his retirement, John started and led the music group “Glory,” performing gospel music at retirement centers in Clinton and surrounding counties.  He was a member of the American Legion Post 49.

In addition to his wife, John is survived by two sons, John “Jay” C. (Karen) Williams II of Wilmington, Ohio and Christopher M. (Barbara) Williams of Mason, Ohio; four grandchildren, Michael Williams, Matthew (Kristen) Williams, Jennifer (Austin) Eversole, and David Williams; and six great-grandchildren, Mia, Rue, MJ, Mila, Harper, and Blakely.

The family will receive friends from 10:00 AM – 12:00 Noon, Thursday, August 17, 2023 at Smith Funeral Home, 327 N. South Street, Wilmington, Ohio.  A funeral service with Jay Williams officiating will begin at 12:00 Noon, Thursday.  Interment will be at Clinton County Memory Gardens with military honors provided by the American Legion Post 49 Honor Guard.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in John’s memory may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675-8516.

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