John C. Williams, 60, of Providence, went home to Glory to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Wednesday, January 31, 2024. A resident of Providence for most of his life, a son of the late Richard Sr. and Carole (Johnson) Williams.
John's journey reflects a commendable blend of entrepreneurship, community engagement, and a passion for youth development. Starting with his Subway Restaurant venture in downtown Providence, John demonstrated his entrepreneurial spirit and business acumen. His path took a meaningful turn as he discovered his calling in helping youth. Transitioning from the business world to the realm of community service, he found opportunities to make a difference in the lives of young people.
His involvement with organizations like the Urban League, Elmwood Community Center, and Ocean State Academy emphasized his commitment to serving his community, particularly in Providence, RI. John was President of the Mt. Hope Cowboys Youth Football and Cheerleading Organization from around 2000-2010. In addition to his role as President, John started out coaching on the Flag level, and coached on other levels as well. He was instrumental in the Cowboys move from their longstanding league home, RI Pre-Teen in 2005 to the American Youth Football League. In 2007, John led the organization's move to Pop Warner as a member of the RISMA Pop Warner League. The move to Pop Warner was pivotal and gave the participants an opportunity to compete on a regional and national level. During the Cowboys first season in Pop Warner, the Pee Wee Team became the RI State Champions, New England Regional Champions and advanced to the Pop Warner National Championship at Disney World, Orlando, Fl., were they finished ranked one of the top 8 Pee Wee Teams in the Country. Under John's presidency, the organization also advanced to the Pop Warner Nationals in 2008 and in 2010.
He also served as a member of Immanuel Baptist church for many years helping with youth and serving behind the scenes in many technical aspects and served his country proudly in the United States Air Force.
Beloved father, son, grandfather, brother, cousin, and friend, he is survived by sons: John C. Williams II, Darren J. Williams (Samantha), Jason R. Williams, and Darius M. Williams, and their mother Nicole E. Ward; a daughter: Ryza Seda; granddaughters: Kendall J. Williams and Khari N. Williams; brothers: Bryan D. Johnson (Denise), Richard B. Williams, Jr. (Dawn), Gerald R. Williams (Lisa), Raymond M. Williams (Tricia), Steven A. Williams (Courtney), Juan Howie (Denise); and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was predeceased by a brother: Antone B. Johnson.
Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend visiting hours on Friday, February 9th from 9:00am – 11:00am at Keefe Funeral Home, Five Higginson Ave., Lincoln, followed by a funeral home service at 11:00am with Pastor Fredrick A. Bryden of Immanuel Baptist Church officiating. Live streaming will be available. (The video stream window will appear on this page, below John's obituary at 11:00am on Friday). Burial will follow at Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Exeter, R.I.
In lieu of flowers memorial gifts may be made to: Immanuel Baptist Church, 71 Greene St., Pawtucket, R.I. 02860.