Jerry O’Neal Williams, age 80, of St. Johns, Florida, passed away on March 23, 2026. Jerry was born October 24, 1945, in Hartford, Alabama, to Larmar and Vivian Williams. At a young age, his family relocated to Central Florida, where he grew up and developed a lifelong passion for baseball, playing throughout his youth.

After graduating, Jerry proudly served in the United States Army as a Morse code telegrapher stationed on the Greek island of Crete. Following his military service, he returned to the Orlando area, where he met the love of his life, Linda. In 1977, they welcomed their daughter, Jennifer. Together, Jerry and Linda were devoted parents who built a home filled with love, laughter, and strong family values.

In 1986, the family relocated to Newport, Tennessee, through their work with Radio Bible Hour. They faithfully served there for 31 years before retiring.

Jerry enjoyed spending time at the PGA Senior Center in Ponte Vedra Beach, where he loved playing Wii Bowling and Bingo. He cherished the friendships he made there. Jerry also had a deep love for music from the 1950s through the 1980s and maintained a collection of over 6,000 songs.

Known for his gift of conversation, Jerry never met a stranger and was never at a loss for words. He enjoyed animals, Western television shows, and college football.

Jerry is survived by his daughter, Jennifer (Chris) Howard; Step Granddaughters Jocy and Audrey Howard; his sister, Janice Moore; his sister-in-law and caregiver, Amy (Skip) Skelton; his nephew, David (Leslie); and many extended family members. Jerry was preceded in death by his loving wife Linda, his parents, Lamar and Vivian, and his Brother-in-Law, Lane Moore.

Affectionately known as “Big Red,” Jerry will be remembered as a gentle soul with a big heart—someone who loved humor, his family, and his Lord and Savior.