Born on May 1, 1948, in New Bern, North Carolina, to Dexter and Gladys Williams, John lived a life marked by hard work, devotion to his family, and a lifelong love of fruit jars and fishing.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Dexter and Gladys Williams, and his brother, Donald Williams.
John is survived by his loving wife, Carolyn; his stepson, Charles Grady; his daughter, Anna Williams Holloman (Drew Starling); and his grandson, Johnathan Holloman.
A visitation will be held at his home on Thursday, July 16, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Family and friends are invited to attend and share their memories of John.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a favorite charity in John's honor.
Cotten Funeral Home is honored to serve the family and friends of John F. Williams.