JODIE WILLIAMS

Jodie Williams passed away August 22, 2008, at his home in Ocala, Florida. Hiers Baxley Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Services will be held Wednesday, August 27, at 2:00 p.m. at Hiers Baxley Chapel. Reverend Andy Bloom will officiate. Viewing will be 1:00- 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 27. Interment at Ocala War Memorial Cemetery, with full military honors, will follow.

Jodie was born August 8, 1926. He was 82 years young.

He was a member of the Greatest Generation - WWII. At age 17, he enlisted in the Navy. After 3 weeks of training, he was sent to war, serving in the South Pacific. He drove a landing craft and landed a large number of soldiers onto the beaches at Iwo Jima and Saipan.

He was wounded during a fierce gun battle with Kamikaze pilots. He received the Purple Heart along with many other medals. He fought bravely and willingly for his love of family and country.

He is survived by his wife Betty; daughters Karen Stevenson of Daytona Beach, Florida, Retha Turner and husband Robert of Port Orange, Florida; three grandchildren and three greatgrandchildren; an only sister, Louise Broussard and husband Carl (A.C.) of Kilgore; two nieces Jo Lynn Brown of Kilgore, Jean Mattern and husband Keith of Overton; sister-in-law Bettie Williams of New Diana; and a host of other loving family and friends.

Jodie was preceded in death by his parents John and Jessie Williams of Kilgore; three brothers, Herschel Williams of Inverness, Florida, Clyde Williams of Kilgore, and Thomas Williams of New Diana; the mother of his children, Bonnie Williams; and his beautiful dog and constant companion "Charlie."

He loved to fish and hunt and never met a man he didn't like. He will be missed deeply, but through the blood of Jesus, we will meet again in glorious times forever.