James Walker Williams

James Walker Williams passed away peacefully on December 10, 2025, in Chapel Hill, NC at the age of 79. Born on January 13, 1946, in Rocky Mount, NC, Jim was a distinguished lawyer, practicing law in Asheville from 1970 until his retirement in 2012. As a partner in the firm of Roberts & Stevens, PA, he was a highly respected and well recognized trial lawyer, specializing in medical malpractice defense. He was considered one of the best by his colleagues across the State of North Carolina for his integrity, professionalism, diligence and collegiality. He enjoyed being a mentor to many young attorneys during his 42 years of practice.

Jim's legal career was marked not only by his dedication to his clients but also by his unwavering commitment to his profession. He was very active in many professional organizations, holding leadership positions in the North Carolina Bar Association, the North Carolina Association of Defense Attorneys, the Defense Research Institute, the American College of Trial Lawyers, and the 28th Judicial District Bar. Among other honors, Jim received the J. Robert Elster Award in Professional Excellence from the North Carolina Association of Defense Attorneys in 2013. Jim was also named as a Permanent Member of the Fourth Circuit Judicial Conference.

An alumnus of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Jim earned his Bachelor of Science degree in 1967, followed by his Juris Doctorate in 1970. While his professional endeavors defined much of his life, it was Jim's spirit and zest for life that truly resonated with those around him. He was not merely a lawyer but a man of many passions who lived his life to the fullest. He loved travel and adventure, particularly enjoying the Abaco Islands in the Bahamas and many other Caribbean locales. He enjoyed sports cars, boats and motorcycles. After his retirement, he relocated to the Straits in Down East Cateret County (just east of Beaufort NC) to be closer to the waters he loved. Jim embraced a life filled with fishing, boating, sailing, and everything associated with the water. Jim led a wonderful fulfilling life.

Jim is survived by his loving wife, Sheryl Howell Williams of Chapel Hill; his sons, James Walker Williams, Jr. of Virginia Beach, VA, and Jonathan Brian Williams (Heather) of Waxhaw, NC; his five grandchildren, Emily, Ashley, Andrew, Madison, and Bobby; his sister, Roberta G. Williams of La Canada, CA; and his sister-in-law, Terry H. Mitalas and brother-in-law, Paul Mitalas of Chapel Hill.

Jim was predeceased by his parents, Robert Walker Williams and Lela Gay Leggett Williams, and his daughter, Katherine Williams Washington. He was also predeceased by his loyal dogs - Grouper, Abaco, Bella, Sam and Smoky - who always greeted him with wagging tails.

In accordance with his wishes, there will be no traditional burial. Jim was to be cremated, with his ashes scattered into the waters of the North Carolina Coast. A memorial service to celebrate Jim's life is planned for the future in Beaufort, where stories of his kindness, humor, and enduring legacy can be shared.