James W. "Jim" Williams Jr.

James "Jim" William Williams Jr. was born on November 18, 1961. With great heartbreak for those he leaves behind, he was called to his heavenly home suddenly on July 14, 2025. He is preceded in death by his parents James and Martha Williams.
He is survived by his beloved and devoted wife Kim "Kimmy" (Kessler) and his cherished buddy and grandson Liam; daughters: Nikki (Mike) and Jamie (Ryan); step-daughters, Melissa Edwards and Alicia Eckard; grandchildren: Mykayla, Brayden, Jace and Lily; siblings: Emma, Chris (Susan) and John.
Jim is also survived by his mother-in-law, Peggy Kessler, who he doted on and loved dearly; sisters-in-law Nanci (Kevin) Lilly, Cathy (Jim) Flowers, Jennifer (Dale) Baugess and Joy (Randy) Kinser. He was also "Uncle Jim" to a host of nieces and nephews who will miss his playful spirit.
Jim loved being "Papaw". Jim and Kim dedicated themselves to raising Liam and giving him a full and wonderful life. This included navigating Liam's medical issues related to cystic fibrosis and participating in many special opportunities Liam experienced through the "A Kid Again" program.
Jim was a proud Ohio State Buckeyes fan and a loyal Cincinnati Bengals fan (even before it was cool to be one). He loved sharing these interests with Liam. He enjoyed traveling with Kim and Liam to support the Ohio State Men's soccer team and interacting with the team members who welcomed Liam as an honorary member.
Though too short, his life was filled with great love for Kim and Liam and his family. He enjoyed being a sports fan, taking beach vacations and traveling to see different lighthouses. Jim had an interest in space travel and space launches and shared this interest with Liam. As a family, he, Kim and Liam traveled to see several space launches at Cape Canaveral.
Jim had a lively sense of humor. He loved funny things and sharing silly videos and jokes with everyone. He was personable and loved talking to people and telling stories.
He graduated from Westland High School in 1980.
Beginning at age 17, Jim loyally worked at Kroger for more than 40 years until his retirement due to medical issues in 2022. He became familiar with many regular customers and enjoyed interacting with them.
Jim was very proud of his Greek heritage and cherished the opportunity to visit Greece in 2019.
Family and friends will be received for visitation on Sunday, July 20 from 1pm to 4pm at Jerry Spears Funeral Home, 2693 West Broad St., where a "Celebration of Life" service will be held at 11am on Monday, July 21, officiated by Pastor Dale George, from Cypress Wesleyan Church. Burial will follow at Alton Cemetery.
In matching Jim's loyalty to The Ohio State Buckeyes and the Cincinnati Bengals, please feel welcome to wear your favorite Buckeyes or Bengals sports attire to the services.
If so desired, in lieu of flowers please consider a memorial donation to a fund for Liam or a contribution to the "Cystic Fibrosis Foundation" or the "A Kid Again Foundation".
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