John David Williams Jr., 73, of DeValls Bluff departed this life on August 27, 2020.
David was born on May 20, 1947 in Pine Bluff, AR. He was a 1964 graduate of Humphrey High School, where he was a self-proclaimed basketball star. He went on to join the United States Air Force and was honorably discharged when his baby sister was battling leukemia. David was employed by the Cotton Belt Railroad until his retirement. He was an avid sportsman who loved deer, coon, and turkey hunting and fishing. David married the love of his life, Marty Williams, on November 29, 1969 and to this union was born two children.
True happiness came when David became a Poppa. His grandkids were his life and he nicknamed them all. He never missed a sporting or school event, and when his family needed anything, Poppa was only a phone call away. He could fix or build anything. Poppa is often described as one-of-a-kind. Many people have commented that they loved to listen to him at ballgames. If you sat close enough to him, you quickly realized that he had a “special understanding” and good rapport with the umpires. If he aggravated you, that meant that he loved you. Later in life Poppa enjoyed playing Texas Hold’em with a group of people he considered friends.
David is survived by his mother, Anna Belle Flanery; his wife of 33 years and best friend, Marty Williams; daughter, Lisa (Phillip) Martin; son, Davy (Angie) Williams; grandchildren, Jade (Levi) Fleming, Kelby Martin, Bryce (Elaina) Sims, Brenon (Abby) Williams, Brayden Williams, and Brance Williams; great-grandchildren, Eden Sims, Garner Sims, and Madden Fleming; Sister, Debbie (Curtis) Ahrens; and a host of cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, J.D. Williams Sr.; stepfathers J.W. Kuhn and Beau Flanery; sisters, Jeanette Williams and Betty Ann Williams.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations may be made to Hazen Elementary PTO for PPE, water, and cleaning supplies. The family appreciates the love and support shown during this time. Thank you for joining us in celebrating his life.
Visitation and Services will be held at the DeValls Bluff Community Center, 710 E. Sycamore Street, DeValls Bluff, AR. Visitation – 1:00 P.M. / Services – 2:00 P.M. on Monday, August 31, 2020.
So sorry to hear of your loss. Praying for all the family and friends during this difficult time.