John Henry Williams, Sr.

John Henry Williams, Sr. aka “Bubba / Big John”, 85, passed away Wednesday, January 8, 2020. He was born January 9, 1934 in Macon, Georgia to the late Laura Bell Williams (White) and Pate Elton Williams. He graduated from “Old Woodward” High School in 1953. While attending Woodward he played football and baseball. His senior year he pitched a No-Hitter in the city tournament against Walnut Hills High School. John Henry was a talented boxer. He won The Silver Gloves, National Golden Gloves Regional Championship (Cincinnati, Ohio) and fought in the National Golden Gloves Finals in Chicago, Illinois. After high school he served in The United States Navy (1953-1957). While in the navy he was “All Navy Boxing Champion”. He enjoyed bowling and won many tournaments. Cincinnati Bengals and Cincinnati Reds was his favorite sports teams. He was a member of Elisha Lodge No. 106. He retired from Ford Motors, May 1, 1996. He was a faithful member of Morning Star Baptist Church (Cincinnati, Ohio). John Henry is gone, but will not be forgotten. He leaves to cherish his memory: Marjorie Collier, Dorothy Williams; sons, John M Howell (Dena), Darin Kelly (Angie), Brett Kelly, Trent Kelly (Michelle); daughters, Kathy Graves Hankerson, Dawn C. Williams, Carla D. Williams, and Coni E. Williams; daughter-in-law, Denise R. Williams; grandchildren, Ahtum Cleveland, Isiah Graves, Matthew Graves, Simeon Graves, Alexander Williams, Samantha Wise, Christopher Williams, Taylor Williams, Jordan Kelly, Aleshia Kelly, Maya Kelly, Kayla Williams, and Kya Williams; 24 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and special friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Pate and Laura Williams; sister, Patricia Ann Phillips; ex-wives, Sarah Williams and Patricia Williams; sons, John H. Williams, Jr. and David C. Williams. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 17, 2020 at Morning Star Baptist Church, 722 Oak Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45206. Interment will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, January 17, 2020 in the Vine St. Hill Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to the care of KINLEY Funeral Home.