James Alwood Williams

James A. Al Williams, of Salem, Va., was called to be with his Lord on Wednesday, June 16, 2021. He was a loving and devoted husband and father. He excelled in track in high school, was an avid fisherman and golfer, and enjoyed being outdoors. Rides in the countryside were always a favorite. He was a member and former deacon of Bethel Baptist Church, and felt led to help on several mission trips. He retired from Norfolk and Western/Norfolk Southern as a conductor. He was a neighbor to all, whether mowing yards, shoveling snow, or giving the blessing over a meal. His daughter often said of her father, "He may not always be right, but he is never wrong. He was great source of auto knowledge for his son. He married into a large family and proved he could hold his own with them all in both humor and wits. Family was so important to him. He was predeceased by his parents, Noah and Mary Williams. Al leaves behind his loving wife and high school sweetheart, Barbara; his two children, Dee and Jim; his cousin, Curtis (Priscilla) Williams; in-laws who were like siblings, Ferman (Peggy) Wertz, Wayne (Pat) Wertz, Deborah (Mike) Huffman, Robin (Nancy) Wertz, Cammie (Eddie) Otey; many nieces and nephews; along with many friends. And to the Tuesday Dudes, hit em straight. A celebration of Als life will be held on Tuesday, June 22, 2021, in the John M. Oakey & Son Chapel in Salem with a period of visitation beginning at 6 p.m. and a memorial service at 7 p.m. Pastor Hilton Jeffreys will officiate. For those that would like to honor Als memory, please consider a memorial gift to Good Samaritan Hospice. Thank you to Vanessa, Ally, and especially Cathy of Good Samaritan Hospice. Online condolences may be expressed at www.johnmoakey.com. Service Details. Visitation When Tuesday, June 22nd, 2021 6:00pm - 7:00pm Location John M. Oakey & Son Chapel Address 305 Roanoke Boulevard Salem, Virginia 24153 Memorial Service When Tuesday, June 22nd, 2021 7:00pm Location John M. Oakey & Son Chapel Address 305 Roanoke Boulevard Salem, Virginia 24153