James Williams

James Merrill Williams Sr. age 79 passed Monday, November 29, 2021 in a Chattanooga, TN hospital. James graduated from Cook High School in Athens, TN., where he was known for his athletic skills in football and basketball. He was a veteran of the United States Army where he served his country in the Vietnam War.

James was an avid Tennessee Titan fan, he loved his dogs, and had great pride for gun collection.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Zella Mae Williams, and his son James Williams Jr.

Survivors include his wife of 57 years, Marilyn Elizabeth Jackson Williams, his children, Zelleta Elaine (Jamey) Keeton of Ooltewah, TN., Charles Williams of Athens, TN., and Lovell Williams of Cleveland, TN. Grandchildren, Chelsey, Ashley, Kiara Keeton all of Ooltewah, TN., Jerome McDermott and Amelia Moore of Athens, TN.,and eight great-grandchildren. Brothers and sisters-in-laws, Rosemary Johnson, and Sherry Jackson and Alvin(Zandra) Jackson all of Cleveland, TN., and Tommy(Roberta) Jackson of Athens, TN. Many  other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held Friday, December 3, 2021 at 6:00 p.m.in the chapel of M.D. Dotson and Sons Funeral Home – Cleveland, TN., with Rev. Vant Hardaway officiating. There will be a walk through visitation from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. prior to the service at the funeral home in Cleveland and in compliance with COVID -19 the family request that everyone wear a mask and practice social distancing.