Jesse James Williams Sr.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jesse James Williams Sr., age 71, who departed this life on January 16, 2026. Born on September 2, 1954, in Youngstown, Ohio, to the union of Lincoln Williams and Mary Pearl (Jackson) Williams, Jesse lived a life enriched by family, faith, and music.

A proud graduate of Hubbard High School, Jesse furthered his education at Raphael School of Beauty obtaining his certification as barber. He later found his calling in the auto fabrication and manufacturing industry, dedicating many years of his life to General Motors before retiring. His craft was not only a profession but a testament to his unwavering work ethic and commitment to excellence.

Jesse was committed to serving God throughout his life. A man of deep faith, Jesse began the work of ministry at Phillips Chapel Church of God in Christ under the guidance of the late Superintendent Emeritus Paul E. Loggins. His spiritual journey continued as he became a member of Heavenly Place Church of God in Christ under Pastor Stafford Jackson until he joined the fellowship of Bible Land Church of God in Christ.

Jesse was also a member of the Golden Cavaliers, a quartet group where he passionately played the saxophone, lead guitar & drums. Jesse loved listening to the inspiring sounds of gospel music. He also enjoyed television programming that featured cowboy classics movies and endless reruns of Everybody Loves's Raymond. Jesse appreciated special outings such as dining at local restaurants, enjoying a cup of coffee with conversation and seizing upon any opportunity to spend time with his family. He was an avid Cleveland Browns fan.

Family was paramount in his life, and he leaves his love for his beloved sons Jesse (Alicia) Williams and Tremaine O'Connell, both of Waikiki, Florida; cherished siblings Matricia (Hosea) Britt Sr. of Bedford Heights, Lorinda (Elder Andrew) Carlisle of Hubbard, Diane Houston of Youngstown, and Lincoln Nathaniel (Evangelist Faun) Williams of Liberty Township; as well as sister-in-law, Missionary Elizabeth Jackson of Hubbard. He also leaves a legacy entrusted to his three grandchildren and a multitude of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins who will cherish his memory.

Jesse is now reunited in eternity with his beloved parents; brother Eddie Lee Jackson Sr.; grandparents, George & Mary Williams, James & Mary Elizabeth Jackson; nephews Eddie Jackson Jr. and Stevan Luke, all who predeceased him.

In this time of sorrow, let us come together to honor Jesse's life and cherish the memories we hold dear. A public viewing for Jesse will take place on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at 9:00 AM at Bible Land Church of God in Christ, 3767 Jacobs Rd, Hubbard, followed by the Celebration of Life service at 10:00 AM with his pastor, Superintendent Joseph Kuykendall officiating.

After the committal ceremony, Jesse will be laid to rest among the serene vista of Tod Homestead Cemetery. As we remember Jesse, let us carry forward his spirit of love, music, and devotion to God and humanity that touched so many lives.

At this time of intimate need and personal loss, the family of Jesse James Williams Sr. elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care, along with Transitional After-Care Arrangements to the J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 2234 Glenwood Avenue, Youngstown, Ohio, 330.782.8500.