James Hall (Jim) Williamson of Keller, Texas passed away peacefully on September 16, 2021. He was born in Atwood, Tennessee on June 30, 1931, the third of four children born to Clifford and Lena Williamson. He grew up on a farm, stepping in to help from a young age to assist his ailing father. The first in his family to go to college, he received his bachelor's degree and a master’s in agriculture from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
He became husband and dad the day he married Ruth Lanford on April 27, 1956, adopting her two girls after she had been widowed. They had three more girls to make five daughters – the “Williamson girls.” As the father of five girls, he once commented that he should have bought stock in panty hose! He raised strong and confident daughters and was very proud of each of them.
Jim had a wonderful career of 43 years with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Dairy Division. His career took his family to five different states before he retired as Market Administrator in Kansas City. Upon retirement, a flag was flown over the U.S. Capitol in recognition and he received congratulatory letters from the president of the United States and from the governor of Kansas. He once said, “It doesn’t seem like work when you enjoy what you do.”
His faith and church family were very important to him and over his lifetime served as an Elder and Deacon in the various Churches of Christ where he was a member. He and Ruth were always quick to raise their hands to help and through this service have impacted many lives for good. This legacy of faith and service to others is at the core of who they are and will live on in his family.
Known to many as ‘Mr. Fixit,’ he taught himself carpentry, home and car repair. He used his skills as a tangible expression of his love, building decks, remodeling, installing sprinkler systems and doing many other ‘handy-man’ projects. He recently said he wished he would get well so he could help people again.
He taught his children and grandchildren by example, instilling a curiosity about how things work and a commitment and dedication to each endeavor. The phrase, “Poppy can fix it,” has been said many times!
He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Ruth Williamson and daughters Andrea Bills (Garry), Celia Williamson (Tim), Sharon Smith (Brad), Lynn Niewald (Jim) and Kristin Rademacher (Gary) and by twelve grandchildren, twelve great grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren. Jim’s quiet, big-hearted presence will be missed by many, including his church family at The Hills Church in North Richland Hills. Jim was dedicated, steadfast, and loyal in all he did. He loved deeply and was deeply loved.
Memorial contributions can be made to Menders for the Master, a ministry of The Hills Church completing basic home repairs for people in need. Mail checks to 6300 NE Loop 820
North Richland Hills, TX 76180 or give online at https://thehills.org/give/.
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