James J. Williams "Pops"

James Williams was born on April 10, 1925 in St. Louis, Missouri, to the union of Florence and Babe Williams. James was one of six children, with all preceding him in death. James (affectionately known as Jimmy or Pops), in his own words, has described his life as "really, really complicated".

James attended Divoll Elementary and Vashon High school, both in St. Louis, MO. While in seventh grade, James' teacher recognized his drawing skills and entered James' "Clean Up" poster in a city wide school competition. James won second place. Many years later, after retiring, James used his drawing and creative talents to create architectural drawings and beautiful wall art. James' masterpieces have adorned walls as far away as Haiti.

James served in the Marine Corp from 1943 to 1946. James was one of the first African American Marines to be trained at Camp Montford Point, in Jacksonville, North Carolina. It would take sixty-six years after leaving the military before James' contributions to his country were acknowledged. On June 28, 2012, James Williams went to Washington, D.C., where he was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal.

After leaving the Marine Corp, James continued his education and enrolled in Lincoln University. In 1946, while at Lincoln University, James pledged as an Omega. James maintained his membership and was a current member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Phi Iola chapter of Phoenix, AZ.

In 1950, James earned his degree and became a teacher in the St. Louis Unified School District. James taught school for three years before moving to California. James' career spanned thirty-five years as supervising deputy probation officer in the L.A. County Probation Dept. After retiring from L.A. County, James worked as a computer analyst for Countrywide, for fifteen years. In 1998, while at Countrywide, James' work ethics were recognized and he was awarded "Employee of the Year".

James accepted Christ at an early age. When James moved to Los Angeles, California, he became a member of New Gethsemane Baptist Church. James frequently visited Houston, Texas and became a Honorary member of Mt. Pilgrim Baptist church. Upon relocating to Phoenix, Arizona, James became an active member of Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church, where he used one of his many God-given talents to sing in the choir.

James and Pamela were married May 12, 1979 and together they built a warm and welcoming home. James was a loving husband, father and friend.

James departed this earth on Saturday, December 1, 2012. He leaves to cherish his memories his devoted wife Pamela, his daughter Barbara Hall of Missouri, his son Jimmie Jr. (Maria) Williams of California, his daughter Kym (Wendy) Williams of California, his son Damon Cooke-Williams of California, his son Dr. Clevis (Tammy) Parker of Texas, his mother-in-law Thelma Williams of Texas, thirteen grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren, four great-great grand children and many other relatives and dear friends.

Some people spend an entire lifetime wondering if they made a difference in the world. But the Marines don't have that problem.

"Semper Fidelis"

Always Faithful