Obituary published on Legacy.com by Mission Park Funeral Chapels South, Cemeteries & Crematories on Jan. 29, 2026.
Dr. James Ellis Williams, age 78, of
Nixon, TX, passed away peacefully on the evening of January 24, 2026, with his beloved wife, Ruth, at his side.
Dr. James (Jim) Ellis Williams was the son of James Donald and Gipsy Joyce Williams. He lived a life marked by dedication to family, integrity, and faith in God. Those who knew Jim will remember him for his constant concern for others, charitable heart, and good example. He exemplified the calling of his favorite scripture, Micah 6:8: "to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God."
Predictable in the best possible ways, he delighted friends and family with his signature phrases: "Sometimes I amaze myself," always said with a smile; his grounding guidance when complimenting others, "Don't get the big head"; and his habitual exclamation, "Horse Feathers!" when something went wrong. Above all, we will miss his great love and faithful presence.
Jim was preceded in death by his loving parents, James Donald (J.D.) and Gipsy Joyce Williams. Jim is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years, Ruth Elizabeth Williams; his children, Brian James Williams (Kristen), Tamara [Tami] Raquel Brett (Shannon), Lisa Renee Baggett (Aaron), and Audra Annette Walsh (Kyle); his grandchildren, also affectionately known as his baker's dozen: Savannah, Travis, Kendall, Bailey, Reece, Regan, Riley, Gaige, Cora, Rhett, Keller, Adalee, and Eli; and his dear sisters Connie Joyce Clede (Emile) and Deborah Ann Anderson (Roger) along with many beloved nieces and nephews. He was a devoted husband, father, uncle, grandfather, and friend and his presence will be deeply missed.
James graduated Veterinary School, Aggie Class of 1971, and spent his career overseeing food processing plant operations and compliance as a veterinary inspector for the United States Department of Agriculture, mostly in Seguin and
Nixon, TX. He was much loved by his coworkers and was famous for starting his day with a smile and the reassuring and joyful refrain, "Another day in God's country." Mostly, Jim enjoyed spending time with his family, especially Thanksgiving gatherings and family reunions, fishing trips in the Corpus Christi Bay, and trips to the beach at
Port Aransas, TX.
Jim's funeral service will be held on February 7, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. Funeral and burial arrangements are under the care of Mission Park Funeral Chapels South in
San Antonio, TX.
Jim's family is grateful for the compassion and care shown by loved ones, friends, and medical staff during his final days. Every comforting word and gesture was much appreciated.
He will be remembered with love, gratitude, and deep admiration. "The memory of the righteous is a blessing" (Proverbs 10:7)