Buddy Williams

February 5, 1944 - October 18, 2024

James Edward “Buddy” Williams born on February 5, 1944, in Atlanta, Texas, peacefully passed away at his home on Friday, October 18, 2024. He was 80 years old. Buddy was born in Atlanta, but his heart always belonged to the peaceful landscapes of the Huffines Community. His parents, James Hardy Williams and Jo Wilcox Clayton instilled strong values of kindness and faith which he carried with him throughout his life.

Buddy is preceded in death by his beloved parents, his brother, Joe Neal Williams, his sister, Cheryl Akers, and two nephews, Joey Williams and Mickey Williams.

Serving our country, Buddy was a proud sailor in the United States Navy. After his service, he was employed with Thikol and soon began a fulfilling career, dedicating 33 years to International Paper Company as a Journeyman Instrument Electrician.

On January 24, 1975, Buddy married Nancy Lynn Foreman, marking the beginning of a wonderful journey together that spanned 49 years. Their union was blessed with three sons; James Edward Williams of New Boston, Tommy Hollis of Frisco, and Russell Hollis, along with his wife Jennifer of Atlanta. Buddy was blessed with seven grandchildren, Alex, Autumn, Taylor and Charter Williams, Tatum Hollis, Erin and Ethan Hollis. God’s gift of 13 great-grandchildren with two on the way, made Buddy’s eyes sparkle with great joy. Other survivors include two brothers, James David Williams of Atlanta and Jeff Williams and his wife Julie of Nashville, Tennessee as well as a very dear uncle and friend, Charlie Wilcox of Atlanta.

Education was an important part of Buddy’s early life, attending both Atlanta and Queen City schools. However, his greatest lessons were learned outside the classroom. Many of his fondest memories were amidst the whispers of the woods and the gentle lapping of lake waters. An avid fisherman, Buddy was known for his skill and passion, winning numerous bass tournaments and meticulously recording lake levels, rainfall and “honey hole” locations in his treasured little black books. Buddy found great joy in music, a gift he always shared generously with others. His beautiful, “old country” sound made him a favorite of many. For over 40 years, Buddy was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Queen City, where he sang praises, enjoyed frying fish and serving his brothers and sisters in Christ.

A man of sincere gentleness and a magnetic smile, Buddy’s warm brown eyes radiated kindness and love. He had an infectious personality, always greeting life with a whistle and a song. He cherished his family and friends, never missing a chance to brighten their days with laughter and a cheerful little ditty.

Buddy’s legacy is one of faith, love, and a deep connection to God. He would urge us all to reflect on our lives, to repent, and to place our burdens at the feet of our Lord and Savior. His greatest wish is to reunite with all his loved ones in Heaven one day. Until then, his spirit will live on in the hearts of those he touched.