John Williamson

John Williamson, 89, of Earlham, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 28, 2025, at the Stuart Community Care Center.

Born on July 16, 1936, John was the son of Stanley and Irene (Norton) Williamson, and the fifth generation to reside on the family farm. He was raised in a modest 22x22 foot home with an 8x12 foot addition, two bedrooms, and no bath, where simplicity and hard work shaped his character.

John graduated from Earlham High School in 1954, and on March 19, 1960, he married the love of his life, Geraldine (Geri) Nelson. In 1968, they moved into his grandfather’s house on the farm, continuing a legacy rooted in community and stewardship.

A birthright member of the Earlham Friends Church, John was deeply involved in local clubs. He served on the Farmers Cooperative Board, and helped establish Earlham’s first Lions Club. After its dissolution, he joined the Jaycees and later became a member of the established Lions Club. During his children’s school years, he was a 4-H leader, generously sharing his love of agriculture with the youth of Earlham.

John had a passion for antique tractors and loved participating in tractor rides. He camped annually at the Iowa State Fair and proudly volunteered with the Blue Ribbon Foundation, engaging visitors with his enthusiasm and deep knowledge of the fair’s history. Upon retiring, he and Geri enjoyed 17 winters in south Texas, embracing the lifestyle of a proud “Winter Texan.” He cherished morning coffee with friends, first at Montross, then more recently at Beans and Beignets, and spent afternoons driving the countryside, keeping watch on fields and checking in with neighbors.

John is survived by his son, Gary (Laura) of Des Moines; his daughter, Susan (Mike) of Earlham; three grandchildren, Dustin (Sarah) Adams, Kasandra (Bill) Gibson, and Austin (Reilly) Adams; and seven great-grandchildren, Liam, Lily, Mayve, Layla, Lyla, Mila, and Hudson.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Geri; infant son, David; and brother, Jim Williamson.

A celebration of life will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., Saturday, September 13, 2025 at Bricker-Price Block in Earlham. Burial will be in the Earlham Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the Earlham Fire & Rescue.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.caldwellparrish.com.