[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 10 (Wednesday, February 1, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E58]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               IN MEMORIAL OF GEORGE WORTHINGTON WILLIAMS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. BOB ETHERIDGE

                           of north carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 1, 2006

  Mr. ETHERIDGE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life of my dear 
friend, George Worthington ``Jo Jo'' Williams of Dunn, NC, who died 
December 8, 2005. In his passing, North Carolinians and veterans 
everywhere have lost a tireless voice and an outstanding civic leader.
  Jo Jo Williams led a rich and full life, highlighted by his boundless 
energy and patriotism. Mr. Williams was a veteran of World War II, 
serving in the Army Air Corps in the South Pacific theater of 
operations. Following the war, Jo Jo's dedication to those who serve 
our country led him to become a passionate advocate for America's 
veterans. As a U.S. Army veteran myself, I truly appreciate his life-
long work on behalf of veterans. He maintained membership in numerous 
organizations including the American Legion, the Military Order of the 
Purple Heart, Disabled American Veterans, AM Vets, the World War II 
Commission, and 20th Air Force Association. Jo Jo was also a life board 
member of Veterans of Foreign Wars National Home for Children and was 
chosen by the American Legion of North Carolina to attend the 
dedication of the World War II Memorial here in Washington, DC.
  However, Mr. Williams's service and contributions were not limited to 
the arena of veterans. Jo Jo also found time to be active in countless 
other community endeavors. He served as a chairman and member of the 
Harnett County Nursing Home Commission, as a member and former chair of 
the State Employees Credit Union, and as a trustee for the Harnett 
County Library Commission. Following his retirement from the N.C. State 
Surplus Division in Raleigh, he served as Harnett County magistrate. He 
also served on the Dunn Planning Board and as a member of the Harnett 
County Jury Commission. Additionally, Mr. Williams was an active member 
of First Baptist Church where he acted as clerk for 25 years and a 
popular Sunday school teacher and church deacon.
  Though the death of a friend brings great sadness, it is a privilege 
for me to take a moment to honor a man who spent so much of his life 
honoring others. Let Jo Jo Williams's life serve as a testament to 
caring, sacrifice and service.

                          ____________________