John Tarpley Williams Jr. Obituary (1954 - 2026)

In Loving Memory of Hank Williams John “Hank” Williams, known affectionately as Hank to everyone who knew and loved him, was the oldest of five children. He was a man of many talents, but perhaps his greatest gift was his heart—a heart that was always willing to help others and give whatever he had to give. Hank grew up during the era of the Jesus Movement, a time when faith, music, and a desire to share the love of Christ were deeply woven into the lives of many young people. His God-given musical gift was evident to all who knew him. His sister Lois shared many of those musical experiences with him. Together, they sang in coffee houses and Christian gatherings during that special season of their lives. Hank was not only a talented musician and singer, but a loving inspiration and a major part of everything they did together. His faith and his love for others were expressed not only through his music, but through the way he lived. Hank graduated from Derby High School in 1972 and briefly attended Friends University on a music scholarship. He spent several decades as a skilled event decorator in Nashville and worked in the circulation administration at Linebaugh Library in Murfreesboro, TN from 2004-2014. Hank was a talented musician, poet & painter & was also a graduate of the Master Gardener program in Rutherford County. He inspired many with his spectrum of creativity, consistent generosity and faithful perseverance. Hank never hesitated to give what he had. Whether it was his time, his talents, his encouragement, or simply a helping hand, he looked for ways to be there for others. Life brought him difficult and deeply challenging seasons, but even in his darkest hours, Hank found a way to keep pushing forward. His perseverance was a testament to the strength that was within him and to the grace of God that carried him through. Hank’s life touched many people through his music, his generosity, and his willingness to help others. He was a brother, a friend, a singer, an encourager, and a man who gave of himself freely. He is survived by his siblings, Lois, Mark, Tim, and Linda and has captured another generation in the form of his nieces, nephews & great nieces! He will be so dearly missed by his family and by all who had the privilege of knowing him and who will carry his memory in their hearts. And though his voice is now quiet here on earth, the song he shared, the love he gave, and the faith he carried will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.