James Garland Williams

James Garland Williams, 84, of Pleasant Garden, NC, passed away peacefully on June 21st, 2025, after a long, courageous four year battle with pancreatic cancer. Born on January 1st, 1941, in Beaumont, Texas, James was the cherished son of the late Elwood Williams and Margaret Muccy.

James proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1960 to 1963, stationed in Germany. His dedication to the army, though a short career, left him to become a U.S. veteran. His dedicated career led him and his family to North Carolina, where he began working with the City of Greensboro as a Surveyor, retiring with 18 years of service in November 2006. Many would also know him as the “Seafood Man” for Winn-Dixie, as he spent many years working part-time. 

A Kind-hearted and compassionate man, James was known for his generosity to help anyone in need, no matter how big or small the task.  He spent countless hours at the American Legion Cone post #386 making chili every week for the weekly hot dog sales. He was presented with the award of Legionnaire of the Year several years, most recently 2024. Garland was a dedicated grandfather to his two granddaughters, Cheyenne and Chloe. He enjoyed many trips with the girls to “The Walmart” and Dollar Tree. he loved to spoil the girls every chance that he got. He was always the first person to celebrate their accomplishments in life up to this point. He loved those girls more than anything in this world. They were the apple of his eye..

Garland is preceded in death by his parents Elwood Williams and Margaret Mussey and step-father Monty. He is survived by his sister Penny Moon (Winnie, TX), Son Nicholaus Williams (U.S. Army – Kansas), Daughter Kimberly Hawks (Josh), Granddaughters Cheyenne Moore and Chloe Hawks, Nieces Rachelle Parnell (Scott) and Crystal Rose (Mike), Cousins, and extended family members The Hawks, The Freemans, Opie Moore, and special friend Diana Covan. To include all American Legion members of Post #386. Garland will be missed by his family and friends and by everyone that knew and loved him. 

The family would like to say a special thank you to the Cancer Center at Wesley Long and The Hospice of Randolph (Asheboro) and in-home nurses for the love and care that was given during the long battle with Pancreatic Cancer. You all will forever hold a special place in our hearts.

Family will gather for his Celebration of Life on Saturday, June 28th from 3pm to 5pm at the American Legion. 1206 American Legion St, Greensboro, NC 27405.  The family asks that you dress casual as Garland was known for his jeans and a t-shirt or button down shirt. The Randolph County Honor guard will hold a military honors ceremony at 5pm.

In lieu of flowers, please contribute to the Hospice of Randolph in Asheboro.

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