Jack Williams - Class of 1960

[Bob]

Jack E. Williams, age 81 of Knoxville, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 28, 2024. Jack was born in Knoxville on October 29, 1942, to Bill and Zelma Williams. Following graduation from Rule High School he attended The University of Tennessee where he earned his bachelor's degree in history and was a letterman in baseball. Jack went on to work for UT having an accomplished career spanning 36 years, retiring as Vice President of Development and Alumni Affairs. He was a lifelong ambassador for UT and a true Vol for life. Over the years he had served on several boards including Pat Summitt Foundation for Alzheimer's, Friends of the Smokies and East Tennessee Historical Society. He had a deep love for and was involved with the Museum of Appalachia. Jack was an avid photographer and would often donate his time and expertise to capture special moments for organizations, family and friends. He never met a stranger and his loss will be felt throughout our community.
He is survived and will be greatly missed by his wife of 60 years Carolyn Williams; son, Jack Williams (Hayli); daughter, Jennifer Meredith (Randy); grandchildren, Hannah Meredith, Addie Meredith, Avery Meredith, Blake Williams (Loraine) and Lexi Stooksbury (Cole); great granddaughter, Valerie; brother, John Williams (Peggy); as well as several special cousins and extended family members.
A funeral service will be held on Friday, October 4th at 3:00pm at West Hills Baptist Church, Rev. Drew Prince officiating. A receiving of friends to follow until 6:00pm. Family and friends will gather at Lynnhurst Cemetery on Saturday, October 5th at 11:00am for a graveside service. In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made in his memory to Pat Summitt Foundation for Alzheimer's www.patsummitt.org/ Friends of the Smokies www.friendsofthesmokies.org/make-a-gift/ or East Tennessee Historical Society www.easttnhistory.org/support/donate/. Online condolences may be expressed at www.rosefuneraltn.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.