Johnny Harrison Williard

Yadkinville Mr. Johnny Harrison Williard, 76, passed away Sunday, July 10, 2016 at Forsyth Medical Center. Mr. Williard was born August 6, 1939 in Yadkin County to John "Bill" and Sarah Mize Williard. He was a member of Mt. Olive UMC where he served as Assistant Superintendent, Chairman of Trustees, and Sunday School Teacher for many years. Mr. Williard was a charter member of Courtney Fire Dept., a member for 56 years and served as Fire Chief for 50 years. He also served as President of the Yadkin County Fire & Rescue Association for several years. In addition to his parents, Mr. Williard was preceded in death by an infant son, Gerald Williard; and one brother, Bobby Williard. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Janice Smitherman Williard; one son, Barry Williard and wife Patti; two grandchildren which were the light of his life, Anna his baker and Trent his gardener, helpful since he could walk; and one sister-in-law, Charlotte Williard. A funeral service will be conducted Wednesday, July 13, 2016 at 11:00am at Mt. Olive UMC with Rev. Dennis Ammons officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00pm Tuesday evening at Gentry Funeral Service in Yadkinville. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Mt. Olive UMC Cemetery Fund, 3521 Wyo Road Yadkinville, NC 27055. The family wishes to thank their friends, family and neighbors for the love, visits and prayers. Online condolences may be made at www.gentryfuneralservice.com. Gentry Family Funeral Service in Yadkinville is serving the Williard family.