Obituaries

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Gaylan Williams, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, veteran, and friend, who departed this life on Thursday, July 17th, at the age of 73. Born and raised in Ohio, Gaylan proudly served his country in the United States Air Force and was an Administrative Specialist during the Vietnam era, an experience that shaped his lifelong commitment to service. Following his time in the Air Force, he continued his dedication to service as a respected law enforcement officer with the Henry County Sheriff’s Department, where he served more than 20 years before entering retirement. During his tenure as deputy, he made significant contributions to the department and the community, including the creation of the Henry County Sheriff’s Department’s first jail library. He was also the community’s first D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) officer, he implemented and developed the first disciplinary process for inmates and administered the first hearing. He implemented, developed, and taught the 5th-grade students at all the Henry County Elementary Schools.

Gaylan was a man of strong faith and deep convictions. A devoted Christian, he spent countless hours studying the Bible and living a life guided by its teachings. His faith was evident in his kindness, his humility, and his quiet strength. Gaylan and his beloved wife Judy enjoyed watching the Cornerstone Chapel telecasted from Leesburg, VA. Outside of his work and faith, he found joy in life’s simpler pleasures. He was an avid college football fan. Saturdays in the fall were sacred in his home, as he rooted for his beloved Ohio State Buckeyes and Nebraska Cornhuskers. He also had a deep love for animals and was known for his efforts in aiding animals in distress, sometimes bringing them home, and the gentle way he cared for them throughout his life.

Gaylan was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Lelah Scott Williams, and a brother, Scott Williams. He leaves to cherish his memories, his loving wife, Judy C. Williams, one son and daughter-in-law, Adam and Sarah Williams, two daughters, Sonya Anne Williams, and Tina W. Helms and her fiancé Eric Worden, four sisters Judy Williams Buck, Phyllis Carpenter, Linda Boesch and Robyn Wertz, two grandchildren, Caroline and Luke Williams.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on 12 Noon, Wednesday, July 23rd, in the Roselawn Chapel Funeral Home with Director Kelly Ratcliff officiating, and along with co-workers of the Henry County Sheriff’s Department which worked close with Gaylan. The family will receive friends one hour prior to services beginning at 11 A.M.

The family asks that friends and loved ones make donations to the SPCA in his memory.

Though we grieve his loss, we take comfort in knowing he is at peace and is celebrating with his Heavenly Father.

Roselawn Chapel Funeral Home and Burial Park entrusted with arrangements.