John Wesley Williams Jr.

John Williams, 61, of Peoria IL., passed away Saturday, September 24, 2022, at his place of residency. 

John was born on May 7, 1961 in Columbus, GA., to John Wesley Williams Sr. and Mary Emma Cooper. John came to Peoria at the age of seven to be raised by his grandmother Carrie Thomas and aunt and uncle Jessie and Lillie Williams. He married Kim Frakes on December 23,2017.

John is survived by his wife Kim Williams of Peoria; father John Wesley Williams Sr. of Columbus, GA; children:  Will McGee of Peoria; De'Aaron Williams of Peoria; Ashley Williams of Charlotte, NC; Kariann Williams of Peoria; Ian (Olivia) Frakes of Peoria; Emma Frakes of Peoria; Kharlee Williams of Peoria; nine grandchildren:  Juju, Zoe, Khailee, Camdon, Cyllis, Chase, Amia, Zion, Lucille; seven sisters; three brothers and a host of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his mother Emma Cooper, one grandmother Carrie Thomas, one daughter Laquita Hayes, one sister Joyce McKnight and late wife Kim Williams.

John graduated from Manual High School Class of 79. He then went on to get his BA degree from Robert Morris in 2011. John furthered his education by obtaining a Master’s Degree in Business Administration.  

Johns stepping stone for his career in transit began with City Link where he gained the experience and the knowledge for which would become his long lasting employment with the City of Decatur as the Director of Transportation. John had worked for Teen Reach sponsored by Planned Parenthood as a youth outreach director. He was actively involved in the community, leaving a lasting impression on the youth he guided and colleagues. John enjoyed many things one being a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. 

A visitation will be held on Friday September 30, 2022 from 1pm to 2pm at St. Paul Baptist Church (114 W. Forrest Hill Ave) in Peoria. Funeral service will follow at 2pm. Pastor Claude Russell will officiate the service. Honors will be provided by the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity.

Online tributes and condolences may be made at www.cumerfordclary.com. Memorial contributions in honor of John may be directed to his family.