Marion John Williamson

Marion Williamson, 88, of rural Robinson, IL, died at 9:30 a.m. Sunday, June 24, 2012 at the Long Term Care facility at Crawford Memorial Hospital, Robinson. He died from injuries and complications due to a riding lawn mower accident which happened on May 5, 2012.Marion was born March 27, 1924 in rural Hutsonville, IL, the son of Ray Williamson and Clara Holmes Williamson. As a young man, he joined the Grand Prairie Church in rural Robinson, IL. He attended Hutsonville High School, graduating in 1942. He joined the U. S. Army (1943-46) at Camp McCall in North Carolina. He trained paratroopers who served in the 101st Airborne Division. Toward the end of WWII, he was shipped overseas to serve in the Philippines, Okinawa, and occupied Japan.Having been a lifelong farmer, he belonged to the Soil and Water Conservation District. He was an avid conservationist and he was very passionate about conserving our forests and woodlands. He was an officer of the Federal Land Bank and a member of the American Legion.Marion is survived by his wife of sixty-three years, Bernetta White Williamson, one daughter and son-in-law, Karen and Gary Sweat, Oblong; grandson, John Sweat, Terre Haute, IN; one son, Gary Williamson, Vienna; grandson, Craig Williamson, Boston, MA; grandson, Kent Williamson, Laredo, TX; great grandson, Devin Williamson, Laredo, TX; former daughter-in-law, Ann Williamson, Bayless. He is also survived by his sister, Virginia Fegan, Sacramento, CA; several nieces and nephews; and special friends, Terry, Tammy, Christopher and Christine Thompson. He was preceded in death by his sisters, Frances Meadows, Mary Elizabeth Correll; and his brother, Glen Williamson.Following cremation, private graveside services will be held at a later date on the Oak Grove Cemetery, rural Palestine. Memorials may be made to the Oak Grove Cemetery with envelopes available at the Goodwine Funeral Home. The Goodwine Funeral Home, Palestine is in charge of arrangements.