Jack Richard Williams

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John (Jack) Richard Williams (October 29, 1909 - August 24, 1998) a dedicated political conservative, was a radio announcer, advertising writer, mayor of Phoenix, and three term Republican governor of Arizona. Elected governor in 1966, he served until 1975 and was the first governor chosen for a four year term.

Williams was born October 29, 1909, in Los Angeles, California. Moving to Phoenix with his family, he attended Phoenix Union High School and Phoenix Junior College before joining the staff of Radio Station KOY in 1929. He was one of Arizona's most listened to radio voices for four decades and conducted the popular "This and That" commentary which he always opened with the words: "It's another beautiful day in Arizona. Leave us all enjoy it!" Williams was vice president of the Phoenix Housing Authority in 1944–1947, president of the Phoenix Junior Chamber of Commerce in 1946, and a member of the Phoenix City Council. He was elected mayor of Phoenix in 1956 and served two terms.

He ran on the Republican ticket for governor in 1966 and was victorious. He announced that he would not seek re-election as governor in 1974. "He was a team player who believed in appointing good men to top posts and then allowed them to run their departments." He died August 24, 1998.

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[edit] References

• Goff, John F. Arizona Biographical Dictionary. Black Mountain Press. Cave Creek, Arizona 1983.