James "Jim" Taylor Williams Sr

James “Jim” Taylor Williams, Sr, 88, of Indianapolis, Indiana passed away April 6, 2019. He was born November 22, 1930 in Licking, Missouri to John and Maggie Williams.

Jim graduated from Licking High School in 1950. That same year he took a job with Proctor Gamble. On June 15, 1952, he selflessly made the decision to join the United States Air Force. He served overseas during the Korean Conflict, earning the National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal, the United Nations Service Medal, as well as the Good Conduct Medal. He served 4 years and was released from active duty on June 12, 1956. Our nation is forever grateful for the brave men and women who have served our county both past and present. It happened to be in 1956 he also met the love of his life, Shirley. While walking to a movie with friends in Biloxi, Shirley was stopped by a gentleman driving a 1955 Buick. That gentleman just happened to be an airman stationed out of Kessler Air Force base. Jim took the chance and asked the ladies where they would be after the movie, low and behold he showed up at the diner and swiped Shirley off her feet. They were married just 9 short months later on December 30, 1956. They spent 62 beautiful years together raising their two sons; they remain deeply in love at the time of his passing. Jim took a job with the Federal Aviation Administration School. He was a high altitude controller until February 1972 when he transferred to the automation section. He taught a computer course for the FAA Academy in Oklahoma, where he built a career starting as a data specialist and retiring as the automation department head in 1986. Though he didn’t stay in retirement long; that August, the FAA contracted the automation section to the Diversified International Science Corporation where he was called to work as manager of air traffic control center. He ultimately retired in December 1990. Jim was also a track observer in the 60s and 70s. He joined the Mason’s Speedway Lodge in 1974. Just a couple years later, he also added the Scottish Rite and Shriner Murat Temple to his resume. From 1975-1976 he was the Speedway VFW Post 2839 Commander, moving up the ranks to District Commander from 1980-1981. He also served as the Speedway Post Quartermaster for 7 years. Jim was a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather; he will be truly missed by those who were lucky enough to meet him.

He is preceded in death by his parents, John and Maggie; 3 sisters; 1 brother. Surviving to cherish his memory are loving wife of 62 years, Shirley Williams (Wise); sons, James “Jimmy” Williams, Jr and Michael Williams; grandsons, Douglas Williams and Matthew Williams; best friends of 61 years, Garland and Gloria Edwards; his cherished nieces and nephews; as well as a host of extended loving family members and friends.

All are welcome to visit Thursday, April 11 from 10-12 PM at Flanner Buchanan – Floral Park, 425 N. Holt Road, Indianapolis, IN 46222. Funeral services will take place at 12 PM. Jim will be laid to rest at Floral Park Cemetery immediately following services. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Melanoma Research Foundation. Envelopes will be provided at the funeral home.