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Duane Jaqua Williams, M.D. born on Dec. 6, 1941, passed away on Friday, March 1, after a lengthy illness.

He was born in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and passed away in Greenville, Butler County. He was preceded in death by his grandparents J.W. and Bessie Suite and parents Glenn J. and Mary Jo Williams. He is survived by his beloved wife of 29 years Edith Ryan Williams, his son Mark Williams (Sandy), his daughters Kelly Abry (Glenn) and Shannon Garrison (Greg), stepchildren Michael Waite and Caroline Waite, and grandchildren Elise Garrison, Julia Garrison, Hunter Abry, Rhiannon Abry and Cameron Waite, as well as a multitude of cousins and relatives from Alabama to California.

He was a graduate of LSU medical school. He enlisted in the United States Air Force as a surgeon and served as a Captain during the Vietnam War. It was here that he found his calling. When he returned from the war, he completed a residency in pediatrics. He was a pediatrician for over 50 years and loved every minute of it.

He enjoyed hunting and fishing, as well as making his own longbows. He was a mentor and guiding light for many in the community. His kindness and compassion was well known and he gave of himself freely to all in need.

Flowers or plants are welcomed, but Dr. Williams asked that donations be made to St. Jude’s Children Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, Tennessee 38105.

Services will take place at Dunklin Funeral Home. Open visitation will occur on Tuesday, March 5 from 1 – 3 p.m. with a graveside service immediately following.

For online condolences, please visit www.dunklinfh.com.