James F Williams' Obituary
James loved the outdoors—whether he was walking through the woods, sitting quietly in a tree stand, or keeping an eye out for that “notorious big buck” he was always sure was just around the corner. Hunting wasn’t just a hobby for him; it was where he felt most at home, and if you knew James, you probably heard at least one good story about it.
He also loved the simple things—like sitting around a fire pit with family and friends, talking about anything and everything. Those moments, full of laughter and stories, were some of his favorites. James was a hands-on kind of man. He worked as a mechanic and had a natural talent for fixing just about anything with moving parts. If something was broken, he didn’t shy away—he figured it out. Beyond that, he had an artistic side too, able to draw and create in ways that surprised people, including tattooing. Whether it was engines, woodwork, or art, he took pride in what he could build and fix with his own two hands. He was also known for his curiosity and love of learning, often watching shows on The History Channel and anything educational—earning him the title of a walking encyclopedia among those who knew him best.
He is survived by his parents, Pat Williams and Francis (Gloria) Williams; his uncles, Ronnie (Mercy) Luce and Denny Lanzer; his brothers, Michael Williams and John (Nicole) Williams, and Troy (Holly) Baker; his daughters, Shannon (Luke) Matney, Ashley Williams, and Stephani Williams; and his granddaughter, Andrea Matney. He is also survived by his niece, Autumn Williams; his nephews, Michael Jr. (Sarah) Williams and Keegan (Ashley) Williams; his close cousin, Joseph (Desi) Luce; and his Goddaughter, Sophia Allman. He is further survived by many extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.
A private viewing will be held on Friday, April 10, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Sunset Memorial Gardens.
In true James fashion, he’d probably tell us not to make too big a deal of things—but instead to share a laugh, tell a good story, and think of him the next time you’re out in the woods or gathered around a fire.
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