John Arthur Williams

John Arthur Williams, 90, of Gulfport, passed away on July 24, 2017. He was born June 30, 1927 in Jackson, MS to MJ & Alice (Peavy) Williams. He graduated from Millsaps College with a Bachelor's degree in Education. He served our country as a member of the US Navy in WWII. He spent his career working as a Teacher, Social Security Administration and the Harrison County Welfare Department. He was predeceased by his parents MJ and Alice Williams; 2 brothers, MJ Jr. & Elbert Williams & by his loving wife Myrta Faye (Higginbotham) Williams. He is survived by his daughters Alison Madigan (Dennis) of Long Beach & Joy Hird (Barry) of Spartanburg, SC. As well as 6 grandchildren Erin, Cody & Connor Madigan and Cooper, Casey, & Lydia Hird. Mr Williams loved Jesus and credits a Billy Graham television crusade in the 1950's for leading him to salvation in Christ. He was a previous member of Trinity United Methodist Church in Gulfport where he sang tenor in the choir for many years. He was a member of Long Beach First United Methodist. The family would like to thank everyone that assisted in the care of John Williams especially the VA Rio Grande care team for their continued support for the last two years. A graveside service will be held at the Biloxi VA cemetery Wednesday, August 2 at 10:00 am. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association at act.alz.org Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home, 15th Street, Gulfport is in charge of arrangements. View and sign register book at www.bradfordokeefe.com