Jimmy Ray Williams

Jimmy Ray Williams, age 85, of Huntsville, Alabama passed away on Monday, November 21, 2022. He was preceded in death by his wife of 58 years Sandra Sinclair Williams, his parents William and Alice Williams, and his grandson Joel Tyler Bell.

Jimmy is survived by his daughter, Ramona (Marvin) Williams Bell of Collierville, TN, and son, Marty (Amanda) Ray Williams of Huntsville, AL. He is also survived by three granddaughters: Haley Allison Bell, Jordan Kathryn Bell, and Marlee Claire Williams.

Jimmy was born August 9, 1937 in Oklahoma City where he was adopted by William (Bill) and Alice Williams. He lived in Oklahoma and Louisiana prior to moving to Prentiss, Mississippi where he spent most of his childhood. He was always helping his dad by going with him when he checked on company gas wells. He loved taking things apart and rebuilding them. Always resourceful and ingenious, he parlayed his skills into a Bachelor of Science degree in engineering from Mississippi State University. His first professional job was at Brookley Air Force Base in Mobile, AL.

In early 1961, he was offered an opportunity to join NASA, hence his move to Huntsville, AL. During his 35 year civil service career with NASA, Jimmy served on programs from Apollo to the Space Shuttle and was heavily involved in rocket testing. After his retirement, he continued to be active, always building or creating something. Jimmy was a kind soul who loved to pass on his knowledge to the next generation. His passion was being able to lend a helping hand to those in need.

Visitation for Jimmy will be held Monday, November 28, 2022 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM followed by a celebration of life service at Valhalla Funeral Home, 698 Winchester Rd Ne, Huntsville, Alabama 35811.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alzheimer’s Foundation of America or the American Cancer Society. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.valhallafunerals.com for the Williams family.