John “Jack” Hickey-Williams, formerly of Newtown, passed away unexpectedly on November 15, 2024, at his residence at Heron Cove Assisted Living in Vero Beach, Fla.

Jack was born on October 1, 1942, in Philadelphia, Penn., a son of the late John F. and Marion E. Williams. The Williams family were longtime parishioners of St Helena’s Church in Philadelphia, where Jack and his siblings attended grade school.

Jack attended LaSalle College High School and graduated Cum Laude from LaSalle College in 1964 with a Bachelor of Arts in the Classics. He then graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Theology from St Charles Borromeo Seminary in 1969.

After serving the Church, Jack moved to Washington, D.C., to pursue his master’s degree in early Christian studies at The Catholic University of America. It was during this time that Jack began dating his future wife, Catherine “Cathy” Hickey. They married on November 30, 1974, beginning a lifelong partnership dedicated to social justice.

In 1978, Jack and Cathy moved to Bridgeport, where Jack took on a leadership role with Catholic Charities of Bridgeport. In 1983, they moved to Newtown, which they called home together for the next 34 years. After Catholic Charities, Jack joined United Way as the Vice President for Research, Planning and Policy before founding his own consulting firm, Empowering Resources, which focused on supporting nonprofit organizations.

Jack and Cathy’s commitment to social justice, community service and education was a cornerstone of their life together. Jack was an active member of St Rose of Lima Parish in Newtown, where he especially enjoyed singing in the adult choir. He also supported various local causes, including C.H. Booth Library.

Jack was a cherished friend to many and a beloved godfather to several. After Cathy’s passing on April 3, 2017, Jack relocated to Vero Beach, Fla., in 2019, to be closer to his sister Marion.

Jack is survived by his loving siblings: Marion Berry (Vince), Joan Collins (Tim), Gini Tate (Frank), and Michael Williams (Kathie).

He was predeceased by his sister Kate Farley (John) in 2022.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on December 10, 2024, at St Rose of Lima Church, 46 Church Hill Road in Newtown, at 11 am. Visitation will precede the service at 10:30 am.

In lieu of flowers, gifts in Jack’s memory may be made to The Friends of the C.H. Booth Library, 25 Main Street, Newtown CT 06470 or the charity of your choice.

Jack’s family and friends will forever remember his compassion, dedication to helping others, and unwavering commitment to his faith and community.