James was born January 3rd, 1936, to John and Florence (Sturtz) Williams in Nevada IA. After graduating from Anamosa High School he joined the Army.

After being honorably discharged he traveled extensively by motorcycle from Northern Africa, throughout Europe to the Arctic Circle. Upon his return he studied mechanical engineering at Letourneau University in Longview, TX.

In 1958, he married Joan Wendt, of Manchester, IA, and the couple later moved to Marshalltown, IA, where he worked at Fisher Controls. Jim and Joan went on to operate several bars in Marshalltown, the first being the Red Rooster.

They had five children. Lisa (Robert) Friedrichsen, of Waukon, IA, Lane (Doby) Williams, of Toledo, IA, Lee (Isabel) Williams, of Queen Creek, AZ, Leslie (John) Miller, of Windsor, CO, and Wendy Williams who died at 2 days of age.

Jim was predeceased by his wife Joan, he and Joan’s parents, brother Fred and sister-in-law Winnie Williams and his infant daughter.

He is survived by his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

A family and friends celebration of life will be held at a later date.