Paul R. Williams, 77, died May 24, 2019, and was eventually cremated while under the care of Anderson Funeral Homes.

Williams was born Nov. 18, 1941, to Albert and Helen (McCready) Williams in Brevard, N.C. He received his high school diploma and attended junior college.

Janette Johnson, Williams’ step-sister and sole remaining family member, attended the graveside service and received the folded American Flag at the end of the ceremony. The graveside service was attended by well over 200 individuals, including Navy servicemen and women, veterans from IVH and from across the state, Marshalltown community members, and the Marshalltown Chief of Police Mike Tupper and Marshalltown Fire Chief David Rierson as well as the Marshall County Sheriff Steve Hoffman.

Renowned veteran-inspired motorcycle groups like the American Legion Riders and Patriot Guard had dozens in attendance, with motorcycles bedecked in American flags.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS BY ELLIS PATTEN — Hundreds turned out to honor US Navy veteran Paul Williams on Friday, including biker groups, US Navy servicemen and women, fellow veterans and Marshalltown community members.

The Patriot Guard formed a corridor down which Williams’ urn was carried through before being placed in front of the tent, and the Iowa Veterans Home chaplain carried out the sermon.

“I really wanted to give the staff at the Iowa Veterans Home closure because a gentleman they had been caring for for so many years passed away‚” said Jody Anderson, owner of Anderson Funeral Homes and US Army veteran.

Anderson said the amount of support that came to the graveside service brought tears to his eyes and he hopes that when they have another service for a veteran, a similar sized group shows up.

“The last thing I want to do is not give honor to a veteran, no matter the family that can attend,” Anderson said.

Online condolences may be sent to www.andersonfhs.com