Jack Gilbert Williamson

Jack Gilbert Williamson, 89, of Anderson, was called home on Tuesday, January 6, 2025. Jack was born on July 20, 1936—only to be outshined 33 years later by Neil Armstrong. The baby of eleven children, Jack single-handedly helped decrease the birth rate in Anderson during the 1940s by faithfully accompanying all of his older siblings on their dates.

On December 21, 1957, Jack married the love of his life, Carolyn. He loved his wife wholeheartedly and would choose her again and again. Jack often said he loved to dance, but the truth is, he loved a woman who loved to dance. Together, they showed their children what true love looks like. Jack was an amazing provider and a devoted family man. Jack was blessed to have made a home for his family surrounded by loving neighbors whom he considered second family. He cherished time with his grandchildren, especially trips to the State Fair. True to form, Jack could park the car, make the rounds, and be back in the car in under an hour—an impressive feat few could match. Jack loved to laugh and had a gift for making others laugh along with him. He enjoyed fishing—but only when the fish were biting—and greatly looked forward to his annual fishing trips with MOAFT. Jack played softball with the gang from Magnequench but enjoyed the post-game celebrations at Monty’s in Chesterfield even more—win or lose. Those relationships continued well into his later years, as the group maintained steady contact with him and always included him in lunches, Christmas gatherings, and visits to the very end. On Thursday nights, you could reliably find Jack at Meadowbrook Pizza for the weekly drawing. Jack had a deep love for animals and generously supported organizations dedicated to protecting and caring for them. He will be remembered for his humor, loyalty, love for family, and the quiet ways he made life more joyful for those around him.

He is survived by his son, Scott Williamson of Anderson; his daughter, Kim (Tim) Johnson of Muncie; grandchildren, Jessica (Paul) Teague, and William "Joe" Purkey; and Brandon Johnson; even greatgrandchildren, Bailey (Ethan) Crenshaw, Grace Teague and Brynn Teague; Katie Baugher, Kyla Baugher, Khloe Baugher, Joselyn Purkey, Gavin Purkey; and great-great grandchildren, MaeLynn, Jaevion, Elsie, Winnie, and Millie; sister-in-law Nancy Jane Williamson; and his loyal furry companion Ozzie; and half of the population of Madison County in nieces & nephews.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Carolyn (Crosley) Williamson and granddaughter Tara Baugher; and his ten siblings and several of their spouses.

The family would also like to sincerely thank Dr. Parker, Dr. Benell, and the amazing staff at Ascension Saint Vincent Anderson Hospital; and Jack’s caregivers, Misty, Jodee, JB, and Ross for their compassion at Jack’s time of need. Special thanks to Tiffany at Dr. Lawlor’s office for her friendship and concern.

Services will be at noon on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at Rozelle-Johnson Funeral Service with Pastor Jeff Johnson officiating. Burial will follow in Anderson Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be Saturday from 10-noon at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be given to Grateful Rescue & Sanctuary of Muncie.