Philippine Missionary Work

In Memory of John Williams: Continuing a Legacy of Love and Service

We are deeply saddened to share that John Williams has recently passed away. In lieu of flowers, we are asking for donations to continue the mission that John and his wife, Jonalyn Williams, began together with the love and support of their church family at the First Congregational Church of Plymouth in Plymouth, Connecticut. All funds raised will be managed through the church account to ensure the mission continues.

How It All Began

In 2007, Jonalyn noticed how many books in the U.S. were left unused. Having grown up in the Philippines, she remembered a childhood where books were rare treasures—something she longed for but often didn’t have. She dreamed of putting those unused books into the hands of children who truly needed them. She shared her vision with John and their church family in Plymouth, and together they brought it to life.

With the church’s support at every step, thousands of pounds of books were collected, packed, and shipped to schools in the Philippines. Fundraisers like spaghetti dinners helped cover the heavy shipping costs, and even local writers donated books. Over time, these efforts reached eight schools on several islands, planting seeds of hope and opportunity for countless children.

Expanding the Mission

In 2013, when Typhoon Haiyan struck, Jonalyn, John, and their church family extended their mission beyond books. Friends and church members rallied together to send much-needed relief aid to families recovering from one of the most powerful storms in recorded history.

Then, in 2015, after Jonalyn made a full recovery from cancer, she told John she wanted to travel to the Philippines and meet the children who had been receiving the books. That visit changed everything. Seeing the impact firsthand inspired her to do even more.

When Jonalyn returned in 2017, she realized another pressing need: a shelter for unhoused boys. Drawing on her own experiences as a young mother, she shared this vision with John, the church, and the Plymouth community. Once again, the church was all in—helping to raise funds and provide support.

Construction began in 2018, and by 2019 the shelter was completed. That year, Jonalyn, her son, and daughter-in-law traveled to the Philippines to celebrate the opening. They also hosted a food and supply drive, serving rice, spaghetti, pork, and ice cream, while handing out school essentials like pencils, pens, paper, backpacks, and crayons.

Why This Legacy Matters

What began with unused books grew into something much greater—a mission rooted in love, faith, and community. With John and Jonalyn leading the way, and the First Congregational Church of Plymouth in Plymouth, Connecticut actively involved in every step, this work has expanded to include education, disaster relief, and now a safe shelter for vulnerable children.

How You Can Help

Though John is no longer with us, his legacy continues. By donating, you are honoring his life and helping Jonalyn and their church family carry forward the mission they built together. Every gift goes directly to sustaining this work—ensuring that children and families in the Philippines continue to receive books, relief, and shelter.

Your support means the world. It keeps John’s spirit of service alive in every child who learns, every family who receives help, and every boy who now has a safe place to call home.