John Daniel Williams

HUDSON - Devoted Christian, loving husband, dedicated parent and active community leader, John Daniel Williams, 79, passed away unexpectedly April 15, and is now home with his Lord God Almighty.

Elder son of the late John Daniel III and Dorothy Elizabeth Williams, he was born July 1, 1942 in Youngstown, OH. Fondly known as “Dan” amongst his family, friends, and acquaintances, he was a resident of Hudson since 1968.

Dan graduated cum laude, with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, from Westminster College, where he met his lifelong soulmate, Laurie Rees Williams. The two were married in 1964, and soon relocated to northeastern Ohio. Dan completed his master’s and doctoral degrees in business from Kent State University and spent much of his career in academia. He was a Professor Emeritus of Finance and Assistant Dean and Director of Graduate Programs within the College of Business Administration at the University of Akron.

He was a devout Christian and served as a deacon at Christ Community Chapel. Dan’s relationship with the Lord was paramount and he took every opportunity he could to serve Him.

Dan was an active member of the Hudson community, having served as councilman on the Hudson City Council and Chairman of the Hudson Park Board. He also participated in Hudson Rotary and other civic programs. He especially enjoyed the 26 years that he volunteered as official timer and clock operator for the Hudson High School varsity basketball program.

He loved spending time with his family.  In retirement, he and Laurie enjoyed exploring new destinations.  When home, he was an avid cyclist and could be seen around town with his cycling buddies.

He is survived by his loving wife, Laurie; sons, Douglas (Laura) Williams, David (Allyson) Williams; grandchildren, Matthew, Erin, Rees, Zachary; brother, Theodore Williams.

Pastor Jim Colledge will conduct services at 11 AM Friday at Christ Community Chapel–Hudson Campus, 750 West Streetsboro Street, Hudson, OH 44236. Friends may call 4 PM to 7 PM Thursday at Redmon Funeral Home, 3633 Darrow Road, Stow, OH 44224. Burial will be at Markillie Cemetery in Hudson.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Dan’s name may be made to Young Life of Western Reserve, 5700 Darrow Road, Hudson, OH  44236.

Dan will be remembered by his family and friends for his Christian witness, kindness, generosity, and community involvement. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.