James S. Williams, Jr. (known to us in high school as Jimmy Williams) died at age 48 -- which was far too young.  We recall that he was employed by the local school district in their media department.  Our now 20-year old recollection was that Jimmy had become depressed over life's trials and tribulations and "left for a better world."  We recall with great fondness that Jimmy Williams was a fun-loving, hard-working and serious contributor to our class.  He was the treasurer of the Student Council in our senior year, treasurer of our junior class, treasurer, then president, of his High-Y group, on the Echowan staff and played baseball in our sophomore year.  Everyone regarded Jimmy as a great friend.

At the time of his death he lived in New Brighton, Minnesota.  At that time he was survived by his wife, Bonnie; mother, Agnes; daughter, Kiersten; and son, Tom.  He left behind loving aunts and uncles Peggy Meyer and Addie Albrecht, and Vernon and Stanley Johnson and his Godmother, Evelyn Larson; and a cousin Ruth.  He is interred in Lakewood Cemetery in Minneapolis.

In our 50th Reunion "Luckiest Generation Memories Book, classmate Dan Geldert notes that: "My memories of Jim Williams revolve around many Saturday night "penny-ante" poker sessions around his dining room table. The group included Ross Legrand, Kent Nichols, Dick Arndt, and frequently Howell Owens, Tim Stone, Bob Possehl, and others. A good time was had by all as we honed our poker skills and were fed delicious "little sandwiches" by Jim's hovering mother. Hopefully, we all learned something about patience from Jim as he dealt with his ever-hovering mom. What a gentleman."

"Jim had a strong interest in sports and it was always his desire to be a professional baseball player and follow in the footsteps of an uncle of his."

"I was very fortunate to be a part of the very special circle of friends mentioned above. Jim was at the center of that group...a person you could always count on in any time of need. He is missed."   Dan Geldert.

James S. Williams was: Born April 30, 1940; Died February 17, 1989