Johnny B. Williams

Johnny B. Williams was born November 23, 1940 in McNairy County, TN the son of the late Alva D. and Clarice Blondell Johnson Williams. He was raised by his grandmother, Mary Harris Johnson, and his aunt, Mary Jo Hurst.

He was united in marriage to Alma Sue Gooch on January 22, 1959.

Mr. Williams was a 1958 graduate of Selmer High School. After graduation he attended the Columbia School of Broadcasting in Atlanta, paying his way by setting pins for a bowling alley near Stone Mountain, GA. Mr. Williams was hired by WHBQ Radio Station in Memphis, working as the morning D. J. before George Klein made his debut. He was known by his radio handle, "J. B. in the morning." Mr. Williams later worked for American Optical in Memphis before becoming the first hourly employee hired at Tennessee River Pulp & Paper Company in Counce, TN. He worked his way up to foreman over the number 2 paper machine before retiring with 40 years of service. Mr. Williams was a member of the Selmer Moose Lodge, having served as a former Governor. He was also a member of Court Avenue Cumberland Presbyterian Church. In his spare time Mr. Williams enjoyed working in his yard, boating, and camping.

Mr. Williams departed this life on December 29, 2018 in Savannah, Tennessee at the age of 78 Years, 1 Month, 6 Days. He is survived by his wife of almost 60 years, Alma Sue (Gooch) Williams of Selmer, TN; two sons, William Earl (Bill) Williams and companion Tammie of Selmer, TN and Dr. Christopher D. (Chris) Williams of Knoxville, TN; two half-sisters, Laura Feldworth of St. Louis, MO and Mitzi Foust of Augusta, GA; a brother, Jerry Mac Williams of Bartlett, TN; a sister-in-law, Doris Clifton of Selmer, TN; and his beloved Miniature Schnauzer, J. B.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Williams was preceded in death by a half-brother, Carliss Hardin.

Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of the donor's choice.