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James Williams Obituary
August 14, 1921-May 22, 2013
Dr. James Harold Williams died at home in Walnut Creek on May 22, 2013. Harold, as he was known to all, was born August 14, 1921, in Lamesa, Texas, to James Rainey Williams and Nellirene Haney Williams. He attended the University of Texas before relocating to Los Angeles. During World War II he served as communications and supply officer on the submarine USS Pogy (SS-266).
He married Betty-Lou Harris, the love of his life, on September 25, 1943. After the war he attended Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia, graduating in 1950. He spent five years in general practice in Stockton before moving to Berkeley to earn a law degree at the University of California's Boalt Hall in 1959.
His legal work centered on medical-legal issues and cases. Dr. Williams was the co-author (with Professor David W. Louisell) of two books in the areas of law and medicine, "The Parenchyma of Law" and "Medical Malpractice." He also authored "Medical Atlas for Attorneys."
In 1972 he moved from Berkeley to Wichita to join a law firm specializing in medical malpractice. Later in his career he lived and worked in Philadelphia, Santa Clara, and Long Beach. With his wife Betty-Lou he retired to The Sea Ranch and later to Pacific Grove, and recently to Rossmoor in Walnut Creek. He was a skilled and innovative gourmet cook and took particular pleasure in family gatherings and outings with his children and grandchildren.
He will be lovingly remembered by his devoted wife of 69 years, Betty-Lou, and their four children: John Roger Williams; Meredith Ann Medearis (Tom); Margaret Ellen Hagen (Chuck); and Alison Williams (Mario Moratorio). He is survived by his six grandchildren: Lauren Elizabeth Boschetti Mancuso (Brian); Ann Marie Boschetti (Martin Alexander); Gregory William Boschetti; Scott Whittier Medearis (Katie Burroughs); Lesley Kathryn Medearis Felton (Jon); and David Andrew Medearis (Johanna Ensslen); and three great-grandchildren: Lacey Allyse Mancuso, Bradley Paul Mancuso, and Emory Grace Medearis.
No services are planned. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions in Harold's memory to a favorite charity.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Williams
2 Entries
Chaplain Ray Fritz
June 3, 2013
On behalf of the United States Submarine Veterans, our condolences to Betty-Lou and all of Dr. Williams' family, friends and loved ones. You are in our thoughts and prayers that God will give you peace, comfort you in your sorrow and loss, and heal your broken hearts. We are grateful for LTJG Williams' service to our country in the U.S. Submarine Service during WWII as communications and supply officer on the USS Pogy SS-266. To our "Brother of the Phin" ... "Sailor, rest your oar. We have the watch. May you rest in peace and may God bless your loved ones with wonderfully fond memories. Thank you for your service to our country." -- Rev. Ray Fritz, National Chaplain United States Submarine Veterans, USSVI.
Carol and Steve Bishop
May 27, 2013
Our morning walks along the trail were always the brighter and more interesting for meeting you and Harold along the way. We treasure his memory, and will think of you both each day. Our fondest thoughts are with you, Betty, and your family.
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