John McLarty "Papa" Williams, Sr., 100, widower of the late Norma Blair Williams, passed away peacefully on February 11, 2024, surrounded by family, at his home in Moreland, Georgia.

Born on July 10, 1923, in Jackson, Tennessee, he was the only son of the late F. A. Williams, and the late Hattie Sue Smith Williams. John served his country as a Naval Aviator during World War II, a period that shaped much of his character and resolve. After his military service, his ambitions and talents took him to Emory University School of Law, where he earned his Juris Doctorate. His education laid the foundation for a distinguished legal career, and he was a founding partner of the law firm of Savell & Williams, L.L.P., where he dedicated his life to the practice of law and became a respected figure in the legal community. His peers recognized his exceptional work and honored him as Attorney of the Year for the state of Georgia. Beyond his professional achievements, John was deeply committed to his faith and community. He served as a Bishop, a missionary, and held many callings in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, guiding many with his wisdom and compassion. His dedication to service was further exemplified by his instrumental role in starting the Boys Club of Southeast Atlanta and his years as a Boy Scout Leader, shaping the lives of young men by instilling values of leadership and integrity. John's interests were as vast as his contributions to society. He was a proud 32nd Degree Scottish Rite Mason and a member of the Commerce Club in Atlanta. His love for travel saw him embark on numerous trips and cruises around the world, each adventure adding to the tapestry of stories he would share with his family and friends. An avid outdoorsman, John enjoyed fishing and hunting, with one of his most cherished trips being a pheasant hunting excursion this past November. John was also very passionate about decorating his house for Christmas and for over 35 years many people came to visit and walk around his home, which came to be known as the "Gingerbread House". Those who knew John will remember him for his adventurous tales, his sharp intellect, and the love he generously extended to all. He lived a full century, marked by significant milestones and everyday moments that he turned into cherished memories for those around him. In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by a son and daughter-in-law, John M. Williams, Jr. (Laura); sisters and brothers-in-law, Harriett Jensen (Henry), Margie Hay (Paul), and Polly Cox; and a grandson, John W. Craig. Survivors include his daughters Sherry Lacy Connell (Ed), and Connie W. Craig (Tommy); grandchildren, Kathy Coleman (Brandin), Robby Craig (Cheryl), Carrie Mapp (Mark), Michael Lacy (Daphne), Blair Craig (April), Marty Craig (Stephanie), Mac Williams (Mickelle), Jenny Cowdell (Aaron), Jared Craig (Jennifer), and Susanna Williams (Eric Perley); 42 great-grandchildren, 22 great-great-grandchildren; brother-in-law, Loren Blair (Tina); sister-in-law, Gwen Blair; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 13, 2024, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 821 Old Atlanta Highway, Newnan, GA 30263.

Higgins Funeral Home Hillcrest Chapel is honored to serve the family of John M. Williams, please visit www.hillcrestchapelcares.com to share your memories or leave a condolence message.