Mr. Lynn George Williams, loving husband of Arlene Holmes Williams and a resident of Craddockville, passed away peacefully Monday, Oct. 7, 2019. He was 71 years young. Born Sept. 5, 1948, in Port Henry, N.Y., he was a son of the late Gerald Williams and Regina Connors Williams.
Following high school, Lynn enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps. Upon his discharge, Sgt. Williams was awarded the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with palm and frame, bestowed in recognition of deeds of valor or heroic conduct while in combat with the enemy. His U.S. Marine Corps specialty training led him to pursue his lifelong career as a master electrician. As a dedicated veteran, Lynn continued to serve his country as a member of the American Legion in both New York, and on the Eastern Shore of Virginia, for a combined 37 years.
For anyone who knew Lynn, there were few times you’d see him without a banjo or fiddle in hand. As one of the founding members of the Champlain Valley Bluegrass and Old Time Music Association, nothing gave him more happiness than sharing his passion for music with others. Over the years, his musical talents have brought joy to countless people, not only as an artist, but through teaching others his gift and restoring instruments to their prime. Lynn was always there for those who needed him, unless of course it was a Wednesday night. Those nights, which came with an open invitation to any and all, were reserved for music in the man shed – a place where bluegrass was played, stories were told, and great memories were made.
In addition to his wife of 49 years, he is survived by his sons, Doug Williams, of Middleton, N.H., Lynn Williams and wife, Cheryl, of Onancock, and James Williams and Ali, of Norristown, Pa.; grandchildren, Kallie, Hayden, Carrigain, Colvin, and Rowan Williams; four sisters; two brothers; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A gathering to celebrate Lynn’s life, and love for music, will be held at the Holmes residence (34035 Craddockville Rd., Craddockville, VA) Saturday, Oct. 26, 2019, at 2 p.m. Please come as you are.
Contributions in Lynn’s memory may be made to the American Legion, P.O. Box 357, Cheriton, VA 23316.
Memory tributes may be shared with the family at www.williamsfuneralhomes.com.
Arrangements were made by the Williams-Onancock Funeral Home.
