James "Jim" Williams

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of James (Jim) Thomas Williams, who left us peacefully at the age of 83 on January 29, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Now reunited with his cherished wife, Betty Jo Williams (Back), Jim begins a new chapter in eternal life.

Jim will be profoundly missed by his devoted children: Margaret (Ronald) Kleimeyer, Thomas (Denise) Williams, Kathleen (Steven) Trojan, John (Tammy) Williams, Nadine Yusupova, Robin (Mike) Saxon, and Billie Jo (John) Steele. He leaves behind a legacy of love shared with his two sisters, Claire (Jim) Tenhundfeld and Mary Ellen Kelley, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his beloved children, Jeannie Holbrook, Lisa Perry, Rodney Fields, and Ronald Brammer, along with his younger brother, Joseph M. Williams, and brother-in-law, Dr. William Kelley.

Born on September 1, 1941, in Cincinnati, Jim was the son of Joseph and Claire Williams. He attended Roger Bacon High School before proudly serving in the U.S. Navy. Following his service, Jim dedicated over four decades to Ford Motor Company, where his commitment and strong work ethic shone brightly. An aficionado of vintage cars and trucks, Jim found joy in long drives down open roads in his cherished Ford F150, music accompanying him along the way. A true lover of classical tunes, the Great American Songbook, and classic films, he derived happiness from life’s simple pleasures.

Jim embodied a quiet strength and was a devoted patriot, often expressing his gratitude for being born American and for the pleasure of growing up in the 1940s and 1950s. As we celebrate his remarkable life, we remember Jim not just as a father and husband but also as a kind soul who touched the lives of everyone who knew him. He was always generous with his time and talents and was never too busy to help anyone in need. His journey on this earth was marked by love, compassion, and an unwavering faith in God that will forever reside in the hearts of his family and friends. Rest peacefully, Jim; you are deeply loved and will be missed.

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In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the SPCA, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or St. John the Baptist Catholic Church.

Visitation will be held on Friday, February 7, 2025, from 5 to 8 PM at Jackman Hensley Funeral Home, 215 East Broadway Street Harrison, Ohio 45030.  Mass of Christian burial will be held Saturday, February 8, 2025, 10:00 A.M. at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 10010 Carolina Trace Rd., Harrison, Ohio 45030. A burial at Glen haven Cemetery in Harrison, Ohio will follow with military honors provided by the United States Navy and Harrison Honor Guard.