William H. Williams Jr. "Bill"

WILLIAMS – William H. Jr., “Bill”, 89, of Johnstown, passed on to his heavenly reward on December 4, 2019 at Laurel View Village.  Born on July 6, 1930, in Ebensburg, PA.  Son of the late William Hay Williams & Mary Marguerite (Berkebile) Williams, and brother to the late Betty Ann Beihl.  Also preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Leah Hunter Williams.  Survived by three sons, William A. Williams (Lynne), Johnstown; John A. Williams (Kim), Ligonier; and David H. Williams (Tammy), Johnstown; proud grandfather of five grandchildren, Abby (Pittsburgh), Austin, Hunter, Kallie & Jenna Williams.  Graduate of Indiana State Teachers College (now IUP) with a degree in Music Education (1952).  Served in the United States Navy during the Korean War, stationed at the Recruit Training Center in Bainbridge, MD until 1954.  Initially taught in the Hastings School District, Garfield Junior High, then spent the rest of his teaching career at Ferndale Area School District.  Owned and operated Williams Music Gallery, Main Street, downtown Johnstown in his retirement years. Played trumpet in the Johnstown Symphony Orchestra and the Johnstown Reed Band for many years. Directed the First Presbyterian Church choir in Johnstown for almost 50 years, where he also was an ordained Elder.   Organized musical performances throughout our region, and hosted and directed a Mass Choir annually for the First Presbyterian Festival of the Nativity in early December.  Featured as tenor soloist for performances of Handel’s Messiah many times in his early years.  Was very proud to sing with his sons as a barbershop and sacred quartet for over 40 years. Was very involved in the music community in our area for many, many years, and gave of himself tirelessly and selflessly.  Was a member of several area Kiwanis Clubs for decades.  He loved following the activities of his children and grandchildren.  His wonderfully kind and gentle spirit was noticed by all. Friends will be received Friday, December 13 from 2 to 8 PM at Harris Funeral Home, 500 Cherry Lane, Richland and from 9:30 AM to time of Funeral Service at 10:30 AM Saturday, December 14, at First Presbyterian Church, Johnstown.  Rev. Alice Tondora, officiating.  Entombment with military rites by Conemaugh Valley Detachment 287, Marine Corps League at Grandview Cemetery Mausoleum. Family suggests donations to First Presbyterian Church, 309 Lincoln St., Johnstown, Pa. 15901 in memory of Bill Williams.