Dunbar Borough councilman remembered as pillar of community

A Dunbar Borough councilman and lifelong native who died unexpectedly this week is being remembered as a pillar of the community for the various roles he served in for more than 30 years.
John C. Williams, 78, died Sunday at a Pittsburgh hospital after suffering a massive stroke several days prior.
Dunbar Mayor Norm Gordon and several council members said they were shocked to learn of Williams’ death.
“I will always remember John for his consistency of being willing to help and saying that we all must work together,” said Gordon.
Williams was honored Monday by his fellow council with a black drape and black wreath.
According to Gordon, a big part of the borough’s history has gone with Williams. “He had a wealth of knowledge about the borough,” said Gordon.
Gordon recalled running against Williams for mayor in the November 2013 general election.
“He was a poll watcher and the first one out the door to congratulate me,” Gordon said.
Councilman Bob Opst described Williams as a simple person that enjoyed life. “He liked firearms and enjoyed hunting and fishing,” said Opst.
Williams had served in various positions throughout the community, including his roles as mayor and council president.
Most recently, Williams was a member of the borough’s police committee and a constable for both the borough and Dunbar Township.
Williams was also a member of the Dunbar Historical Society and active at the Dunbar Loving Hands Senior Center.
John Tabaj, a Dunbar Township supervisor, said Williams’ death is a great loss to the community.
“He was very respected, and the people just loved him,” said Tabaj.
Opst said that Williams was a large supporter of firearms and always kept up-to-date with trainings and certifications.
Dennis Heath, borough constable, said Williams was his deputy.
“He attended training with me, and surprisingly, at his age he kept up with it,” Heath said.
There will be a private funeral service with arrangements under the direction of the Paul G. Fink Funeral Home Inc., 418 N. Pittsburgh St., Scottdale.