Dr. John Edwin Williams

In Loving Memory of Dr. John Edwin Williams

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of John Edwin Williams on January 18, 2025 at the age of 88. John Williams was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend who touched the lives of many with his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering love.

Born on August 3, 1936, in Red Oak, Iowa, John was a person of immense character, quick wit and warmth. John’s academic studies took him from Arizona and Nebraska to Michigan, where he earned a Doctorate in Statistics and Operations Research at the University of Michigan. He stayed in Ann Arbor to become the Executive Director of the Ann Arbor Y, introducing an abundance of educational programming to the Y’s offerings, while continuing to teach Statistics and Research Methods to countless graduate students and engineers. John was a loyal Wolverine fan spending years of Saturday afternoons in Section 3 of Michigan stadium. John lived in Florida for many years as he continued his teaching/consulting career with various NASA contractors. He never tired of the peace and beauty of the ocean enjoying daily walks on the beach. A lifelong learner, John delighted in all things related to technology and proudly wore the label of “early adopter” as he mastered a myriad of new gadgets. He was a devoted father and grandfather, offering unconditional love and support while encouraging independent thinking. John made all decisions by calculating various probabilities, while accepting that some of life’s mysteries “passeth all understanding." He lived by the Christian tradition of doing the best he could for others as well as himself, believing that even a random universe is full of hope. John’s generous and big heart will be dearly missed.

John is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Ila (Mogensen) Williams, three of his four children Jeff (Marla) Williams, Scott Williams, and Sarah (Jeric) Williams Johnson as well as his grandchildren John Williams, Jessica Williams, Annika Johnson and Fiona Johnson, who will forever cherish the memories and the legacy he left behind. John also leaves behind a wide circle of friends and colleagues who were fortunate enough to know him.

He is predeceased by his son John E. Williams (1973); his mother Valera P. Williams (1999); and his father, Edwin J.(“Sam”) Willams (1962).

A celebration of John’s life will be held on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at Walker Funeral Home, 5155 W. Sylvania Ave., Toledo, OH 43623 at 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM, where friends and family are invited to honor and remember the one-of-a-kind person John was.

We find solace in knowing that John's spirit will live on in the hearts of those who loved him. His presence, guidance, and light will be dearly missed but never forgotten.

May he rest in peace.