Obituary of James A. Williams

December 20, 1934 - April 30, 2025

James A Williams, age 90, passed away at his home in Houston, TX, on April 30, 2025.

He was born on the 20th of December 1934 in Woodville, Texas, the son of A. Oliver & Lynn Stewart Willams. A renowned interior designer whose creative eye and impeccable taste made him a standard bearing decorator for the rich and powerful in Houston. He graduated from Baylor University with a degree in Art and a minor in Psychology and then did his graduate work in New York City at the famed Parsons School of Design. Returning to Houston, where he had lived briefly as child, he became a protégé of Lenore Detering and took over her design practice when she retired. He often recalled what a wonderful time it was in Houston when the town, in the early 60’s, was just getting revved up & growing. He recalled that his wealthy clientele had him going east then west to design their homes in various exotic locations. He enjoyed a wonderful career for over 50 years. He felt so fortunate to have found a beautiful house designed by Harwood Taylor that was all glass and surrounded by a tall brick wall. It became a great backdrop for his art collections from travels around the globe. He also took great pride in his family home in Woodville, TX, which he used as an escape from city life when a more relaxed atmosphere was in order.

During his early years in Houston, Mr. Williams along with his partner, Mr. Lloyd Davis, began buying & restoring exotic automobiles as a hobby. Various Rolls Royces, Bentleys and Jaguars took them to England quite often where they made connections and met the Queen’s personal chauffeur, Mr. Harry Paxton. They were invited for a private tour of the Mews at Buckingham Palace and Mr. Paxton allowed them to photograph and even sit behind the wheel of some of the cars. Such a thing would be unheard of today as security was not so much in play then.

Mr. Williams was preceded in death by his life partner of 46 years, Mr. Lloyd R. Davis.

He is survived by his sister & brother-in-law, Dr. Robert & Linda Gough of Barrington, IL and their three children: his nephew, Ryan Williams Gough, wife Kari, and their three children Kate, Luke & Gavin of Western Springs, IL, his godson & nephew, Brandon Gough, wife Melissa Buttin & their twins Henry & Margaux of Seattle, WA, and his niece Robyn and her husband, Jason Stellmach, and their twin children Lauren & Stephanie of Palatine, IL. Mr. Williams was blessed to have a close friendship with his cousin Susan Kennedy of Houston, TX and his extended family, Emily & Andy Crossfield of Lakeland, FL and Pat & John Lakatos of Volcano, HI. Mr. Williams also enjoyed friendship with Joe & Gail Adams and Ms. Bridgett Broussard, his dedicated caretaker of the last 4 years, as well as her loving daughters, Nicole & Monique and their extended family. Most importantly, Mr. Williams is survived by his beloved dog, William.

Mr. Williams was a member of First Presbyterian Church for some 46 years and was a member of their Sanctuary Singers Choir, which he loved very much. Unfortunately, due to his dislike of the politics of the church, mainly their unchristian attitude toward same sex couples, he felt he should not be a part of that mind set so he moved along. His strong faith in God spoke loudly through his love & enjoyment of people. His gentle, good-natured charisma helped define and build the community of friends and family that admired and loved him for who he was: an amazing human being full of grace and truth.

Mr. Williams was interred in the beautiful and historic Magnolia Cemetery in Woodville on May 2, 2025, next to his parents and life partner, Mr. Davis. A memorial service will be held in Houston in the coming weeks. In lieu of customary remembrances contributions may be directed to the SPCA, Palmer Memorial Presbyterian Church, the Shriners, or a charity of one’s choice.