David Williams, Jr.

David Williams Jr, formerly of Sherrard, Illinois, a great man born May 29, 1923, in Lawrence, Massachusetts, died peacefully at his home in Guntersville, AL on April 20, 2023, at the age of 99.  He was 39 days away from his 100th birthday.  He is one of a few surviving and decorated WWII veterans.  He served in the Navy and survived the Battle of Okinawa, one of the deadliest battles in the Pacific.  David was employed as an engineering tech at Ft. Monmouth in New Jersey.

His children, family, and extended family knew him for his quick wit, and relentless willingness to lend a helping hand wherever and whenever needed.  He was always available to his children to support them and was their greatest coach, mentor, teacher, and cheerleader.  He possessed Godly principles and taught his children it was better to give than to receive, to always leave a place, better than when they found it, if they made a mistake to admit it, and so much more.  He earned their respect and adoration without having to raise his hand or his voice.

Dave was a talented golfer with a record 13 hole in ones.  Several young men were coached by Dave and two went on to become golf-pros.  He was an avid ocean, lake, and river fisherman.  He was especially known for his homemade lures that were guaranteed to catch fish.  Neighbors knew him as “Mr. Dave” and thank him for his gardening and maintenance abilities.

He was married to Ruth Anna Woodward of Ocean Grove, NJ, and Lenore E. Mueller-Johnston of Sherrard, IL.  Both are deceased.

He is survived by his son, Douglas F. Williams PhD., and Daughter Vickie Ann Williams, and close and special friend, CloDean Rodgers.  He is also survived by many grandchildren, great grandchildren, and nieces and nephews.

David was preceded in death by his parents, David Williams and Clara Mooney Williams, and son, Richard David Williams.

A celebration of Dave’s life was held at Terrace Lake Village Apartments on April 21, 2023.

Graveside services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday September 20, 2023, at the Beulah Rural Township Cemetery, with military honors to be conducted.  Donations may be made to Enhabit Home and Hospice, 9044 US-431, Albertville, AL 35950 who graciously and tenderly cared for his physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. Esterdahl Mortuary & Crematory, Ltd. is assisting the family with local arrangements.

Memories may be shared on the tribute wall.