James Williams Obituary

James "Jim" Richard Williams passed away on July 9, 2025 in Wellington, KS at the age of 79. Born December 27, 1945, in Erick, OK, and having grew up in Hoxie, KS, Jim was a true adventurer. His family moved to Haysville, KS when he was a teenager and Jim graduated from Campus High School. Always eager to learn, he went on to attend both Kansas State University and Wichita State University, where he earned a Master's Degree. He spent several years working for the Sedgwick County Health Department but found his true calling in education. Jim loved teaching Biology at Wichita South High School, where he retired after 38 fulfilling years. James was a talented musician, a funny storyteller, a fervent sports enthusiast, and an adventurous soul who spent many winters in his beloved Airstream on the Colorado River in Parker, AZ. His love for fishing, hunting, music, and the Walnut Valley Bluegrass Festival provided him with endless joy. James' sense of humor and adventurous spirit were infectious. His talent shone brightly in his music, he composed his own music which he shared on his guitar. Jim found love twice in his life. His first wife, Sue (Young) Williams, passed away in 2002. The two of them had been together since the 1960's. He found love again with Mary Ellen Horsch, whom he married in 2005. An avid storyteller, James often shared tales about his family, his pride in his son and grandson, and his beloved bride. His faithful canine companion, Patches, was always by his side, sharing in his adventures and quiet moments alike.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents, Bob and Thelma Williams; sister, Gail "Sissy" Williams, and his wife, Sue Williams. His spirit continues to live on in the hearts of his family that includes his wife, Mary Ellen Williams of Wellington, KS; son, Jesse Williams and wife Pam; grandson, Caleb Williams and wife Whitney all of Bartlesville, OK; brother, Rob Williams of Fall River, KS; nephew, Nathan Williams of Belle Plaine, KS, and his step-family that includes his daughter, Gretchen Zech of Haysville, KS; son, Spencer Zech of Sagle, ID; daughter, Molly Clark and husband Mike; daughter, Maggie Craig; son, Luke Craig and wife Amanda all of Wellington, KS; 16 grandchildren and a large extended family.

Services for Jim will begin with a Rosary at 9:30 a.m. and will be followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m., both on Saturday, July 12, 2025 at St. Anthony St. Rose Catholic Church, 210 North B Street, Wellington, KS. Interment will follow at the Belle Plaine Cemetery in Belle Plaine, KS.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Jim's name to either the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or the Children's Mercy Hospital. Contributions can be mailed or left with the funeral home.

Share a memory, leave condolences or sign his digital tribute wall at www.cornejofuneralhome.com.

Arrangements by Cornejo Funeral Home + Crematory, 1030 Mission Road, Wellington, KS.