OCALA, FL (352today.com) — Marion County will induct Robert Jackson “Jack” Williams into the Marion County Agriculture Hall of Fame during a special ceremony and banquet on Thursday, Nov. 20, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion Auditorium in Ocala.
The event, part of the county’s National Farm City Week celebration (Nov. 15–22), will recognize Williams’ decades of dedication to local agriculture as a fourth-generation farmer, rancher, and agritourism innovator.
Known for his practical knowledge and tireless work ethic, Williams co-founded Williams and Williams Farm and Custom Work in the 1970s with his father. The operation was known for custom work across thousands of acres and for producing record-breaking soybean yields on Payne’s Prairie.
Over the decades, Williams expanded into row crops, hay production, and cattle operations. He also served for more than 30 years as the farm operations manager for Richardson Brothers.
In 2009, Williams and his family opened Coon Hollo Farm, considered the county’s longest-running agritourism site. The farm continues to connect families with the roots of agriculture through hands-on experiences.
A former FFA member who earned the American Farmer Degree in 1962, Williams has remained active in agricultural organizations for decades, including the Florida Cattlemen’s Association and Marion County Farm Bureau, where he served as a director for 18 years.
Beyond farming, Williams has also been a longtime member of the McIntosh Lions Club and McIntosh United Methodist Church. He and his wife Ginny have been married for 63 years and raised a multigenerational farming family.
The public is invited to attend the November 20 event. For ticket or sponsorship information, contact Crystal McCazzio at 352-671-8400 or CFincher@ufl.edu.
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