James Ellsworth Williams

James (Jim) E. Williams, a loving husband, son, brother, uncle, son-in-law, brother-in-law, nephew-in-law, cousin and friend, passed away unexpectedly on June 1, 2019 in Lakeland, FL. Born on August 18, 1960 to Claire Williams and Beatrice (Stills) of Corning, NY, he was the youngest in a close-knit family of 7. Jim spent most of his life in Corning and was famously known for riding his bicycle in all kinds of weather conditions to and from work (just a short 26-mile loop) on a regular basis.
After retiring from Polly-O Dairy with 32.5 years of service, Jim and his wife, Chrissy, relocated to Lakeland, FL. Jim continued to work part-time for Lakeland Regal Automotive and led fitness/personal training classes in his community. In no time at all, Jim became very well-known and appreciated in his new community.
No matter who Jim encountered throughout his life, he never failed to inspire, motivate or encourage them to lead a healthier lifestyle. Jim will always be remembered as a patient, calm, quick-witted, humorous, kind-hearted, generous and caring man. He will always be thought of as someone who had a gift of storytelling that would leave you in stitches. Jim was a true gentleman who enjoyed the simple pleasures in life.
He enjoyed riding his bicycle, motorcycle, lifting weights (in the most creative of ways) and exploring the great outdoors with his wife always alongside him. He was an excellent cook and was known for preparing elaborate meals for family and friends. He desired nothing more than spending time with family and friends. As much as he was a creative storyteller, he also loved listening to others’ stories. He also found great joy in lending a helping hand or giving advice to anyone who was in need.
His zest for life was like no other. Jim would light up a room just with his smile alone. Jim had a knack for making everyone around him a better person. Jim always thought of others first. Jim’s love for his family and countless friends was evident to all. Jim’s infectious smile, positive attitude, warmth and comfort will always be remembered. We were all truly blessed to have been a part of his life.
Jim is predeceased by his parents Beatrice and Claire Williams, his sister, Marion Sampson of Horseheads, NY, his brother Claire Williams of Elmira, NY and his father-in-law, Paul Yorio of Lakeland, FL. Jim is survived by his wife of 17 years, Chrissy Williams of Lakeland, FL; sisters Edna Williams of Corning, NY, Grace Williams (Gary Hetzel) of Corning, NY, Paul (Janet) Williams of Winston-Salem, NC and Dorothy Williams of Geneva, NY. Nieces and Nephews, Morgan Sampson, Jr., Alycia Griffin, Taswell Henderson, Jr., Andre Henderson, Lamar Williams, Jaymie Heard, Covan Heard, Morgyn and Jon Yorio and Rachael Hetzel; Mother-in-law, Lynda Yorio (Regis Finnegan), Brother-in-law, Mike (Ellen) Yorio.
The celebration of life service will be held on Friday, June 7, 2019 (Viewing Hours 1-3pm with the service immediately following) at the Lakeland Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens, 2125 S. Bartow Hwy., Lakeland, FL 33801. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to Lighthouse Ministries, Inc. at www.lighthousemin.org.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James Ellsworth Williams, please visit our floral store.