John Wood Williams, III, 88, died Saturday, January 15, 2011 at Cox South Medical Center after a brief illness. Born May 17, 1922, John was a lifelong resident of Springfield, Missouri. He loved his family dearly and, as a generous giver, was always ready to lend a helping hand when needed. Leisure time passions included outdoor activities of golf, hunting and fishing. John was truly an Ambassador for Springfield and received recognition for twenty years service as a valued volunteer at the Tourist Information Center. John graduated from Drury University where he was a member of Kappa Alpha fraternity. During World War II he served for three years in the U.S. Marine Corps. Thereafter he worked as District Sales Manager for Mark Controls retiring after 29 years. He was preceded in death by parents, Dr. John W. Williams, Jr. and Marian Francis Williams; and two brothers, Frank R. Williams and David J. Williams. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Mary G. Williams of the home and two sons and their wives, James R. Williams and Linda of Kearney, Nebraska, and Dr. John W. Williams, IV and Shirley of Springfield; four grandchildren, Jessica Williams of Salt Lake City, Utah, Matthew Williams of Anchorage, Alaska, John W. Williams, V of Las Vegas, Nevada, and Sarin Williams Peck of Kansas City, Missouri; and extended family Geneva Robertson and Delores Vincel. Memorial Services will be held on Wednesday, January 19, 2010 at 2 pm at Christ Episcopal Church, 601 East Walnut, of which he was a long time member, with Reverend John Biggs officiating. A reception at the church will follow. In lieu of flowers the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Christ Episcopal Church's Building Fund or Drury University.