John Marlowe Williams, Sr.

John Marlowe Williams, Sr., age 61, died Friday, October 23, 2015 at 5:45 am  at Lower Cape Fear Hospice Life Care Center. That’s when he took his first breath in Heaven. He was born on September 4, 1954, in Columbia, North Carolina.

John was preceded in death, by his Father Cecil Williams. He is survived by his wife of 27 years, Cindy; his mother, Dora Williams; 2 children: Daughter Tonya Williams, and Son, John M. Williams, Jr.

He also leaves behind 2 brothers, Dexter Williams(Linda), and Kyle Williams, a Sister, Connie Britt(Mark), and numerous nieces and nephews. Also his special puppies, Sophia and Scooby Doo.

John proudly served in the United States Coast Guard for 10 years, as a Damage Controlman. Among his many awards were his “Polar Bear” & “Square Knot Sailor” status. He also received many medals and commendations during this time. He last served on the Northwind, which,  at that time, was stationed in Wilmington, NC.

He was a Plumber by trade, receiving his Class II plumbing License on May 14, 1997. He worked for several companies in both North Carolina and Virginia, for 35 years, 3 of which were owning is own company, Just Plumbing, before becoming disabled in 2004, due to COPD & Emphysema. He was an avid Nascar fan, following all the drivers of the Stewart-Haas Racing camp.  He also enjoyed watching professional wrestling.

His passion though, was for veterans.  He worked tirelessly, at the Disabled American Veterans Chapter 11, as Transportation Coordinator, since 2008. He was also a “Trench Rat.”  He loved all his “brothers.”  His other enjoyment, came from going to the New Hope Pulmonary Rehab program.  He had been in that program since 2008, which his doctor credited with extending his life. He also formed some lasting friendships there also.

At his request, John will be cremated.  There will be a visitation on Friday, October 30, 2015, from 7-9 pm. The memorial service, will be at 2pm on Saturday, October 31, 2015 at Wilmington Funeral & Cremation at 1535 S. 41st Street, Wilmington. Honorary pall bearers will be his fellow “Trench Rats.” Flowers are accepted. Donations can also be sent to Disabled American Veterans Chapter 11 PO Box 4046 Wilmington 28406, St. Jude Research Hospital 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN. 38105, NHRMC Foundation in John’s name, for the Pulmonary Rehab program 2259 S. 17th St. Wilmington 28401, and Lower Cape Fear Hospice 1406 Physicians Drive Wilmington 28401.

Thanks to all the doctors that have cared for John for the last few years. Also  the “angels” at Hospice, who made John’s end of life comfortable.

John, you may be gone from our sight, but not from our hearts. Until we meet again…

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Wilmington Funeral & Cremation 1535 S. 41st Street, Wilmington, NC 28403. 910-791-9099