James Williamson

James Otis Williamson of Tazewell died Tuesday, February 6, 2007 in Tazewell, VA. He was born January 2, 1920 in Wayne County, WV and was the son of the late Henderson and Ethel Rorer Williamson. Mr. Williamson was a former resident of Raysal, WV and resided in Tazewell for the past two years. He was a retired foreman from Island Creek Coal Company. Education was a driving force in his life. He was the son of a one-room school teacher and began going to school with her at age two. Living in a rural area, going to school was out of reach for most. He managed to graduate from Wayne High School in 1938 under very difficult circumstances, walking several miles through all kinds of weather to catch a bus. He also lived away from home several times doing odd jobs to make his way. After his marriage and his move to Raysal, he and his wife opened their home to his sisters so they would be able to attend high school. The couple's dream was to send all of their children through college. On a miners salary, they were able to reach their goal, with all five children receiving college diplomas. The importance of education was passed down to the next generation. All 13 grandchildren have college education, including several advanced degrees. His favorite motto was "There can be a great joy in education." Mr. Williamson's vision and love touched many people and will continue to do so through the next generations of his family. In addition to his parents, daughter Patricia Clark, sister, Earlie Hatcher and brother, Henry Williamson preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife Frankie Baisden Williamson Surviving children are Barbara Sims and husband Gene of Parkersburg, WV, Harold Williamson and wife Charlotte of Tazewell, VA., James Williamson and wife Anne of Huntington, WV, Allen Williamson and wife Phyllis of Road Ridge, VA Surviving siblings are Nina Harding of KY, Curtis Williamson, Fay Damron and Katie Thompson all of the Huntington, WV area Grandchildren are Mark Williamson, Jon Williamson, James Sims, Robert Sims, Sarah Cassol, Charles Clark, Michelle Hamilton, Jeffery Williamson, Joel Williamson, Gregory Williamson, Pamela Williamson, Rebecca Kinsey and Anthony Williamson. 7 great grandchildren also survive. During his last days, Mr. Williamson was supported by caregivers Corine Angles, Bernice Hagy, Geraldine Houchins and Charlotte Surratt. Funeral services will be conducted Friday, February 9, 2007 at 2:00 p.m. at Hurst-Scott Funeral Chapel of Tazewell, VA with Pastor Danny Damron officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Gardens, Princeton, WV. Friends and family will serve as pallbearers. Friends may call at the funeral home Friday from noon till the funeral hour.

James Williamson

January 2, 1920 - February 6, 2007