James A. “Jimmy” Williams, Sr.

James A. “Jimmy” Williams, Sr., transitioned to be with the Lord on Friday, March 1, 2024. Born in Lynchburg, Virginia, on November 4, 1938, he was the son of the late Inez D. Williams Payne and the late Warwick H. Pinn.

Jimmy knew the Lord and received Him as his personal savior. He joined Eighth Street Baptist Church at an early age and later became a member of Rescue Mission Non-denominational Church. He would spend many hours talking about the goodness of God to whomever would listen.  Family members often remarked that what they thought would be a short talk ended up being a five- or six-hour conversation, in person or on the phone.

Jimmy had many interests. Education was very important to him. He was educated in the Lynchburg school system and proudly shared his impressive high school class ranking and invitation from Hampton Institute (now university) offering him a four-year scholarship to study the sciences. He was eager to share his knowledge with his family and would have “school” with his young daughters on Saturday mornings. As a result, they knew basic math skills as well as Roman numerals, fractions, and how to tell time with an analog clock before they started elementary school.  Jimmy enjoyed music and he made sure his sons got the opportunity to explore their own musical interest.  He also loved playing basketball and could often be found shooting hoops at the local courts. A surprise to many, he was an excellent baker and his favorite pastries to bake were crème puffs. He also had an entrepreneurial spirit as he owned a restaurant, and with his brother, owned and operated a pool hall. 

Jimmy loved his family, and they loved him. He was preceded in death by many loving family members, including his son, Demetrius A. Williams and grandson, Peter Dunn II.

He leaves to cherish his loving memory, four daughters; Sheila Ford, Sharon Ford-Bell, Felecia D. Williams, and Sandra K. Dunn (Peter), step-daughter, Rosa F. Chasten (William), three sons; James A. Williams, Jr. (Shelly), Stanley R. Williams, Sr. and Gregory Williams; one brother; Robert “Tinnie” Williams (Laura), two loving nieces, Tajuana Williams, and Nanette White (George); and loving nephew, Robert “Tony” Williams (Pam), cousin; Catherine “Betty” Bibb (Larry) and a host of grand and great grandchildren, cousins, and other relatives. We also acknowledge good neighbor and friend, Blake Morris and nephew, Marcus Deas who visited him often, and nephew Joe Ford.

A graveside service will be held at 12 p.m. at Forest Hill Cemetery, Friday, March 8, 2024. 

Tharp Funeral Home, Lynchburg is assisting the family.