Dr. James Arthur Williams

James was raised by both his mother and maternal grandmother, Louise Gray Hill. Three special women in his life were Betty Anne Bryant (deceased), Bertha Padgett (deceased) and Martina Matthews.

James matriculated through the Maryland and District of Columbia school systems ultimately graduating from Douglass Junior-Senior High School located in Upper Marlboro, Maryland in 1959.

James’ eclectic pursuits early on led him to spending time as a cab driver, boxer, teacher, and ordained minister. He also spent 18 years in the Air Force Reserves. His love of education and drive to excel propelled his career as a school administrator starting as a middle school vice principal and then 29-year career as a high school principal. After earning his doctorate from The Ohio State University, Dr. Williams accepted a position as an Assistant Superintendent with Duval County Public Schools in Jacksonville, Florida in 1979. His devotion to students led him from the District Office to the first of many great schools, Jean Ribault High School, where he served as Principal. He went where he was needed and served as Principal at Darnell-Cookman Middle/High School, Englewood High School, Stanton College Preparatory School, and Paxon School for Advanced Studies until 2006. Dr. Williams returned to the District Office as an Assistant Superintendent until his retirement in 2008. He also taught classes at Harvard University and Nova Southeastern University. Dr. Williams was a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. since 1985.

Dr. James Arthur Williams, Sr. departed this mortal existence on September 21, 2023. His legacy will be treasured forever by his children: Algenia Adams, James Jr. (Trena), Byron (Valerie), Tiara Cohen, and special daughter (Kimberley Morrison (Doug). Aunt Ella Hill; Brothers: Dennis (Ruby), Isiah Jr. (deceased), Adrian (deceased) (Rhonda); Sisters: Brenda (deceased), Lena Williamson (David), Arthalia Threat, Allie Watts, Angela Jones, and Armeda M.; Grandsons: Ian Williams, Jaron Russell, Elijah Tawnsell and Tanzer Bennett; Granddaughters: Kristen Williams, Jessica Evans, Brianna Williams, Adrian Williams, Storm Williams, Jaamela Murray (Chay) and seven great-grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and loving friends and colleagues.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.neptunesociety.com/location/tallahassee-cremation for the Williams family.