His Legacy:
James Robert Williams, born in 1951 in Midville, Georgia, moved to Fort Lauderdale to improve his life. Despite facing pneumonia and asthma, he started school at 8 and attended Sunland Park Elementary School and William Dandy Middle School. He graduated from Dillard High in 1971, and his achievements are significant.
James Williams, a talented entertainer, participated in various activities including a modern dance performance as an African Mandingo, joining the chorus under the direction of Mrs. Rhoda Snead, and being a Drum Major for the Dillard Panthers. He was encouraged to pursue a career in football, band, or other activities, and was watched by Dean Coleman, the “Dean of Boys.” After graduation, he served in the Air Force, receiving an honorable discharge after a critical medical condition. His dedication to his passion for music and his dedication to his community remained a testament to his talent.
Until his last breath this charge & roar was clear. “My Name is James Hey, Hey, and that’s no lie Hey, Hey I’ll be a Panther… Hey, Hey, until the day I die.”
We recount the experiences of JR’s past, including the phasing out of Dillard High during a turbulent time of integration in Broward, which led to an uproar on campus, indicating that the students would not tolerate such actions.
Employment History:
Chef James, a 12-year troubled youth, worked as a dishwasher at Sea Grill for seven years before moving on to Carlone’s Enterprise for 22 years. He worked at various restaurants including Brave Bull, Sea Watch, LeDome, RainTree, Carlone’s Cuisine, Buglewood Pub, Stan’s on the Water, St. Joseph’s, St Ann’s Catholic Center, Black Pearl Tavern & Grill, and Durty Harry’s. He held various positions such as cook, pantry, dishwasher, line crew leader, restaurant manager, kitchen manager, and Executive Chef. At the age of 58, Chef James retired from the restaurant industry, reflecting God’s grace and his impact on serving others. His passion was to share his skills and experiences to help youth become self-sufficient. James was one of the first Executive Chefs in Broward County.
JR, also known as “JR” the King, tried his hand at entrepreneurship, opening up JR’S Ribs, Ribs, Ribs in Fort Lauderdale, across from Bradley’s Bar. The family business was established by JR and passed on to his sister Rosa Thomas.
In need of relief, he required a Knee Replacement, rehabilitation, and healing that was essential.
In the next phase of his career, He joins the profession of Security: Enterprise Security Company. Taking on various jobs from around Broward County. Bergeron Rodeo, Banks, Mt. Olive Baptist Church, and Supervisor of Elections (SOE). His most memorable time was during the 2008 Presidential Election for Barack Obama at the African American Research Library and Cultural Center.
Our Love Story:
We married on June 26,1982 with a total of 44 years. He’s been Juliet’s ROCK! Bonnie & Clyde, we’ve been. To this Union came the gift of 2 sons, James Jr., Ja’Quentin Williams. In additional, 2 Daughters: Yolanda Grief, and Latrice Lovett, 2 Sons: James “Sky-Walker”, and Charles Williams.
James is survived by his loving, and devoted wife, Juliet Gray-Williams: his children, grandchildren. Along with a host of nieces, nephews, Godchildren, extended Family & Friends. James loved his family, and family meant everything to him.
It’s been an AMAZING journey!
Community Advocacy
During his past 3 starlight years, he’s been passionate as a Community Activist, and President of our Rock Island Homeowner’s Association. He has recruited many residents to join in his efforts to improve and protect our community.
