Mr. James Louis Williams

James Louis “JL” Williams, was born January 19, 1947 in Memphis, Tennessee, the son of the late Leroy Williams and the late Irene Howard Williams both of whom preceded him in death.

James graduated from Mount Pisgah High School in June of 1965. He completed his undergraduate studies at Benedict College, Columbia SC in Business Management. He also went on to complete two Master Degree programs in Business Management and Leadership Management.

James was enlisted in the US Air Force, allowing him to travel the world while serving his country. He became a craftsman with Norfolk Southern Railroad, retiring after completion of about 18 years of service. Later in life he worked for WLTX 19 in Columbia SC, ETV of SC and Memphis Recovery for troubled teens.

James left his earthly home on March 24, 2025 at 3:00pm.

He leaves to cherish his memory three daughters; Kimberly Hanneman (Jonathan) of Athens, Georgia, Yukisha

Zellars(Anthony) of Columbia, South Carolina and Bridgette D. Williams of Columbia, South Carolina; seven grandchildren, Brandon M. Williams, Brailyn M. Williams of Columbia South Carolina, Brandon Govans, William

Reynolds Jr, Anthony Zellars Jr, Andrew Zellars, Autumn

Reynolds; two great grandchildren, Aalaysia Hopkins and Aamyra Hopkins. Goddaughter Erica Ray (Jamaar); four brothers, Percy Williams, Jimmie “Bill” Williams (Marilyn), and Thomas Williams (Andrea) all of Memphis, and John Williams (Arlene) of Plano, TX; three sisters, Kandra Williams, Lillian Williams Finnie both of Memphis, TN. and Patricia Parson of Ft. Worth TX; Four brothers proceeded him in death, Lee Willie Williams (Barbara), Detroy Williams (Dorothy), Roy Lee Williams (Lillie) and Patrick Williams. He also leaves to mourn his death a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins as well as many dear friends and adopted family members. James’s nephews meant the world to him and let them know each time he spoke or saw them that they made his day!

James was known and loved by many. His nickname became “RADIO”, as he was an avid lover of music. He curated cassette tapes and CD’s for all to elevate to his level of Real Music. His love of family was in all that he did, the most favorite thing to do was…. THE WILLIAMS FAMILY REUNION at TO FULLER PARK on every July 4th. To all his family and friends, nothing meant more than to be together! And he let you know, “You gotta be TOUGH to be a WILLIAMS!”

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