John Edison Williams, program analyst

John Edison Williams, 76, of Warrenton, died Oct. 2 at his home. He was born May 11, 1932, in Memphis, Tenn., the oldest of four children born to John and Rose Lee Williams.

He attended Lemoyne Owen College in Memphis. While there, he joined the Army during the Korean Conflict and was the first African-American from the 3rd Army Region to serve in the U.S. Army Security Agency, which brought him to Vint Hill Farms Station, Warrenton.

His long career at the NSA came to an end when he retired in December 1993.

Mr. Williams was a Scout master and a volunteer football coach for William C. Taylor High School. He organized a semi-pro football team. During the 1960s era of the civil rights movement and desegregation, he and others formed a Public Relations Committee, working together to bring about peaceful integration in the Warrenton community.

His involvement in the community also included the School Board, Warrenton Town Council, and many other community and civic organizations.

A son, Brian A. Williams, preceded him in death.

Survivors include his wife of 53 years, Joan Williams of Warrenton; a daughter, Lynette A. Lewis of Hahira, Ga.; a son, Gregory A. Williams of Centreville; eight grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren.

Also surviving are two sisters, Doris Eiland of Minneapolis, Minn., and Bettye J. Chandler of Gary, Ind., and a brother, Melvin Williams of Houston, Texas.

The family will receive friends from 7-8:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 6, at First Baptist Church, 39 Alexandria Pike, Warrenton, where funeral services will begin at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 7. The Rev. Matthew A. Zimmerman Jr. will officiate. Interment will be at Bright View Cemetery, Warrenton.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Online condolences may be made at www.joynesfuneralhome.com.