Obituary

James Williams, Jr., aka: Jr. Bay, Junior was the son of James Williams, Sr. and Alice Mathis Williams. He was born October 15, 1928, in Palatka, FL. He readily answered his master’s call on August 31, 2023. At an early age, he became a member of Calvary Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Reverend L. M. Mathis. He attended grade school on Palatka and graduated from Central Academy High School in 1948. While in high school, he played basketball and football. Upon graduation, he attended two years of collegiate studies at Edward Waters College in Jacksonville, FL where he also played football. During that time, he was drafted by the U.S. Army. He began his military career with 101st Airborne out of Fort Campbell, Kentucky and Schofield Barracks in Hawaii. He served in the Vietnam War from 1965-1966, where he earned the “Bronze Star” for his heroic achievement in combat zone. He served as Drill Sergeant while stationed in Fort Knox, Kentucky training many young men to become soldiers. He retired as a Master Sergeant after serving 26 years. After retirement, he attended St. Johns River Community College on the G.I. bill and earned his Associates of Science degree in Social Services. He returned to his home church, under the pastoral leadership of Reverend Frederick T. Demps where he loved to regularly attend Sunday School and previously served as Sunday School Superintendent. He remained member an active member during the current leadership of Pastor Herbert Johnson, Jr. Although, he did not serve on the Deacon’s ministry he was affectionately referred by many members as “Deac.” He also worked about 30 years as Palatka’s Taxi man, driving for Diamond T. Taxi. He was previously an active member as a Mason of Widow Sons Lodge, National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), Veteran of Foreign Wars, and board member of Preserve Central Academy.

James was preceded in eternal rest by his parents, James & Alice Williams; his sons, Terence “Terry & Leroy “Tyrone” Williams; and his siblings, Wilbert, Clarence, Wilford, and Ruby Williams.

James leaves a legacy of love and cherished memories: devoted wife of 62 years, Roberta Howard Williams; son, Charles (Brenda) Williams; daughters, LaSandra and Angela Williams; daughter-in-law, Katrina Williams; and sister, Isola Evans. He helped to raise two special nephews, Andric (Sophia) and Anthony Rasher. His grandchildren are Carlos, Erica (Courtney), Heaven, Daisha, Katia, Rico, Tareke, and Derrick. His great-grandchildren are E’Niya, E’Nala, Courtney “CJ”, and Summer. He has a host of other loving relatives and a compassionate church family.

James’ favorite biblical scripture was 1 Corinthians 13:1-13. His favorite quote was, “God is love.” His favorite son was, “The Center of My Joy.” We thank God for a prosperous life of 94 years that was awarded to him.

Viewing
Friday, September 8, 2023
5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
E. W. Lawson & Son Chapel
109 N 9th Street Palatka, Florida 32177

Saturday, September 9, 2023
1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Family Life Center (Calvary Missionary Baptist)
1414 Bronson Street Palatka, Florida 32177

Celebration of Life Service

Saturday, September 9, 2023
2:00 p.m.
Family Life Center (Calvary Missionary Baptist)
1414 Bronson Street Palatka, Florida 32177