Obituary of Jack Lee Williams

 

 

On June 18, 2023, Jack Lee Williams returned home to his Heavenly Father. As an Army veteran, Jack served tours in Vietnam, Korea, and Germany before settling in Lakewood, WA where he taught at the Ft. Lewis NCO Academy. After 23 years of service, he retired as a Sergeant First Class. From his time in the service, Jack is remembered for being incredibly humble and as the most “unassuming badass” there ever was. He was a sure shot, a fixer, and could do anything he decided to do. 

In civilian life, Jack was a true bard at heart. He loved to dance and would burst into song, poetry recital, or story-telling at the drop of a hat - and with the biggest of smiles on his face. Those songs have been passed down through three generations, touching hearts and bringing smiles to everyone throughout the years. We have fond memories of dinner parties with close friends, where they pushed back the furniture to make room for dancing in the living room to the sound of the piano. With his generous-to-a-fault disposition, Jack embraced people with kindness and without judgment, inviting friends and strangers alike into the warm hospitality of the Williams home. Soldiers and seamen on leave, who had no local family, were especially welcomed during the holidays. He had a particular soft-spot for children, both his own grandchildren and those youngsters he supported by volunteering in Tacoma classrooms. As an admirer of beautiful things, Jack delighted in cultivating show-worthy roses, savoring Hawaiian sunsets, and driving his elegant aquamarine Jaguar.

As a man of deep faith with a heart full of grace, Jack would be so moved by the abundance of his blessings that mealtime prayers - especially with extended family at the table - would often bring him to tears of gratitude. There is no greater legacy than leaving behind a family who loves each other and loves God.

He was loved deeply and will be missed by all. 

Jack Williams is survived by his wife of 61 years, Karin Williams; their three children, Tanja Bishop (Paul), Kira Willson (Loren), John Williams (Angela); 6 grandchildren (Lauren, Sara, Noah, Dylan, Blake, Elizabeth) and 7 great grandchildren.

 

A private interment ceremony was held at the Tahoma National Cemetery on Monday, March 11, 2024. 

In lieu of flowers, donations are encouraged to one of Jack and Karin’s favorite charities: 

The Salvation Army 

The Tacoma Rescue Mission

Doctors Without Borders

 

Condolences may be addressed to:

Karin Williams

Mirror Lake Village Senior Living Community 

31000 9th Pl SW #306

Federal Way WA 98023