James J. Williams

James (Jim) J. Williams age 69 of De Soto, IL passed away on March 22, 2024.

Jim was born on November 14, 1954 in Hammond, IN to James Robert and Mary Evelyn (Graham) Williams. He Married Cheri Lynn Smith on February 14, 1974 in Hammond, IN.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years Cheri; brother David (Regina) Williams and sister Linda (Phil) Perkins, nieces Christine (Chip) Chance, Kimberly (Tony) Canosa, Laura Waelbroeck; nephews T.J. (Bridgett) Williams and Derek Williams; grandnephews and nieces Ethan and Emma Chance, Jackson and Natalie Smith, Chase and Lily Waelbroeck, Stella and Chase Williams and many special cousins. 

Jim was preceded in death by his parents James and Mary Evelyn Williams, brothers Don and Tom (Nanette)Williams, his beloved dog Bear, and many feline companions.

Jim was a member of the UAW and worked for Ford Motor Company Chicago Assembly for 30 years. His jobs included assembler, fork lift driver, foreman, and cycle checker. He worked with a lot of great guys who became great friends. They all visited with him by phone or in person in his final months. A great blessing to all! 

He seemed to know everything about everything. From repairing and assembling computers, building furniture, working on cars and fixing anything around the house, he did it all. 

His hobbies included golf, snooker, yard work (especially on the mini excavator and skid steer) and playing SORRY with Emma and UNO with Ethan. Jigsaw puzzles, working on cars, going to car shows and helping people were also his favorite things to do. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him.

A memorial service in Jim’s honor will be held on Thursday, April 4, 2024 at 12:00pm at Rivers of Living Water Fellowship Church in DeSoto with Pastor Susan officiating. A luncheon will follow at the church. Visitation will take place on Thursday from 11:00am until the time of service. 

Memorials may be made to Rivers of Living Water Fellowship Church or donor’s favorite animal shelter.

Meredith Funeral Home in Carbondale assisted the family with arrangements. To leave a story or memory of Jim, visit www.meredithfh.com.