James Elton Williams, 88, of Beckville, Texas, passed away on Monday morning, March 30, 2020, at his home near Beckville. He was born on Dec. 2, 1931, in the Brooks Community of Panola County, Texas to the late William Virgil and Lena Genetta Dailey Williams. Mr. Williams graduated from Carthage High School and served his country in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War before being honorably discharged. He married Doris Merlene Arnold on June 22, 1957, in Carthage and she preceded him in death on February 27, 2013. Mr. Williams worked for Drew Woods, Inc. and later for Patterson Air Conditioning in Carthage until his retirement. He was a member of the Sheet Metal Workers Union in Shreveport. Mr. Williams was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed deer hunting. He lived his lifetime in Panola County and was a member of Pine Grove Assembly in Beckville. Mr. Williams was preceded in death by his parents; wife of 55 years; son, Kenneth Hall; daughter, Charlotte Latrecia Williams Scott; and sister, Mary Dean Wright.

Mr. Williams is survived by his children, Linda Wilkinson and husband Weldon of Beckville, Patricia Campbell of Carthage, Betty Landreneaux and husband Johnny of Lake Murvaul, Brenda Pierce and husband Kenneth of Beckville, Ronnie Williams and wife Maureen of Kilgore, and Ricky Williams of Carthage; 10 grandchildren; and 19 plus great-grandchildren. Numerous other relatives and many friends also survive.

A family graveside service with military honors will be held at Langley Cemetery in Beckville with Bro. Jackie Harris and Bro. E.J. Adams officiating under the direction of Jimerson-Lipsey Funeral Home. A come and go viewing for the public will be held from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Tuesday, March 31, 2020, at the funeral home.

Due the current COVID-19 outbreak, everyone is encouraged to exercise good judgment and follow CDC guidelines with regard to large gatherings and social distancing. Should you choose to instead pay your respects in some private manner, the family respects your choice.

A guestbook may be signed online at www.jimerson-lipsey.com.