Jack C. Williams, a local high school teacher and coach from Giles High School and Christiansburg, entered fully into the presence of the Lord just two days after his 91st birthday June 4, 2024.
Jack was a Christian, a husband, a father, a grandfather, a great grandfather, and a friend. Jack positively impacted many young lives in his years as a teacher and a coach. During his 40-plus year tenure in various school districts around southwest Virginia, he introduced thousands of students to the practice of how to build structures and the proper use of tools. His passion was making connections and reaching students, showing them how to carve out a niche for themselves and their future.
Born in Bluefield, West Virginia, he went on to serve in the US Air Force and earned a teaching degree from the University of Alabama. Roll Tide! Jack taught for 15 years at Giles High School in Pearisburg while raising a family of five children and coaching girls’ and boys’ basketball, football and tennis. He married the love of his life, Hazel, in 1981 and was instrumental in the lives of her four sons. Jack finished his teaching career coaching and mentoring at Christiansburg and East Montgomery high schools.
He was an avid sports fan and had a specific passion for Alabama football. He was a talented wood worker, and he took great pleasure in hand crafting crosses that touched many people throughout the world, as well as gifts for others. He loved to share the stories of his life, engaging others in laughter and tears. He truly was a “Jack of all trades” and could do almost anything. He had a tender heart. He loved to listen to music. He loved well and was well loved. He will be missed by many.
An outstanding coach, teacher, and mentor, he is survived by his wife, Hazel, of Blacksburg; his sister, Ann Boyd (Ralph) Newman of Pinehurst, N.C.; daughter, Debbi (Reese) Evans of Spot, N.C.; daughter Jacki (Mike) Mitchell of Blacksburg; daughter, Theresa (Gerry) Scarborough of Spot, N.C.; daughter, Cindy (Kenny) McGuire of White Gate, Va.; stepson Tim (Karen) Ligon of Blacksburg; stepson Jeff (Carrie) Ligon of Blacksburg; stepson Scott (Mary) Ligon of York, Pa.; and stepson Todd (Klarissa) Ligon of Venice, Fla.; as well as 17 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren.
Preceding him in death are his two sons, Mark Steven and William Pasco; mother Ruth Elizabeth; father Oaka Hare; brother Oaka (Sonny) and two sisters Barbara Kennett and Betty Jeanne Moore.
There will be a celebration of Jack’s life for family and friends held at a later date, no service is scheduled at this time. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to your charity of choice in Jack’s name.
