Chaney-Harkins Funeral Home
Submitted by: Carol Spear Rice

James "Jimmy" Ruben Williams, Sr. of McAlester, Oklahoma passed away on June 11, 2024 at the age of 56. The family will greet friends from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 20, 2024 at the Chaney Harkins Funeral Home Chapel. A celebration of his life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, June 21, 2024 at the Chaney Harkins Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Barbara Smitherman and Pastor Bobby Maddox officiating. The burial will follow at North Town Cemetery. Repass will be held at Tabernacle of Praise Worship Center, 1121 E Chickasaw Ave, McAlester, OK 74501. Pallbearers will be his nephews. Honorary pallbearer will be James Ruben Williams, Jr. Flower bearers will be Shawntay Eubanks, Barbara Gibson and, Cassandra Johnson James Ruben Williams, Sr., affectionately known as Jimmy to his friends and loved ones, was a beacon of kindness and generosity throughout his life. Born on January 9, 1968, in the heart of McAlester, Oklahoma, Jimmy's journey began as the beloved son of Burks David Williams, Sr. and Anne (Hyatt) Williams. His life came full circle as he passed away peacefully in the same town on June 11, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love and selflessness. Jimmy's formative years were spent in the corridors of McAlester High School, where he cultivated a passion for helping others. This passion became the cornerstone of his life, guiding his actions and his relationships. Surviving Jimmy is his proud son, James Ruben Williams, Jr. (Ashley O'Connor) of McAlester. His legacy continues through his cherished grandchildren: Maya Jay-Infinity Williams and Alahna Kaley-Jo Williams, who will carry forward his spirit of generosity. Jimmy's sisters: Cherie Williams of San Diego, California, Kay Williams-Coney of Arlington, Texas, and Kimberly Williams-Robinson (Kenneth Robinson, Sr.) of Buda, Texas, along with her brother, Adrian Williams of Buda, Texas, will hold dear the memories of their brother's unwavering kindness. His life was further enriched by the love and guidance of his aunts: Roberta June Hyatt Parker and Claudezetta Hyatt Warren, both of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Jimmy was preceded in death by his mother, Anne (Hyatt) Williams; his brothers: Tran Burks Williams, Jr., and Van Williams; and his favorite aunt, Clara Brown, who all left indelible marks on his heart. Jimmy was a man who saw the best in people and always lent a helping hand. His approach to life was one of simple yet profound generosity. He believed that the true measure of a man was not in the wealth he accumulated, but in the number of lives he touched. In honoring Jimmy's legacy, let us each strive to be a little more like him, to spread kindness wherever we go, and to remember that in the symphony of life, each act of generosity is a note that resonates through eternity. Jimmy's song has ended, but the melody lingers on, encouraging us to live a life of purpose and passion, just as he did.