James Williams

James S. Williams, 86 of Belgrade Lakes, ME passed away peacefully on May 9th, 2015 surrounded by his loving family. Jim is survived by his wife Doris Becker; his four children, James S. Jr. (Marie), Steven L. (Kim), Robert A. (Nancy), and Nan E. (Jeanine); 10 grandchildren and 5 greatgrandchildren. His family loved him deeply and always looked up to him in admiration. Jim was a constant mentor and hero to his family. James was born in Newark, New Jersey and grew up in Millburn. After marrying his wife Doris, they moved to Point Pleasant, New Jersey where they would live for over 30 years. After retirement, he and Doris moved to Belgrade Lakes, Maine to live in their log home on Long Pond. In 2012, they relocated to Westminster, CO. Jim met his wife Doris in the 5th grade. They started dating in High school where he was the captain of the football team and she was the captain of the cheerleading squad. They married on November 11th, 1950. Doris will miss her best friend of 76 years. He graduated from Trenton State College in New Jersey with a teaching degree and continued his education at Seton Hall to receive his Master’s Degree in Administration. Jim began his educational career at the Boys Choir School in Princeton. He advanced to become the Principal at the Ocean Road Elementary School in Point Pleasant and the 1 st Principal at Point Pleasant Borough High School. During this time, Jim also was the educational consultant for the United States Navy. After leaving public education, Jim was named Dean of Education in the Undergraduate and Graduate Divisions of Georgian Court University in Lakewood. He was consultant for a T.V. documentary with Tom Brokaw highlighting teacher education. He was always a supporter of his students and a leader to his colleagues. He developed and was CoOwner of Camp Penobscot, a summer boys and girls camp, in Belgrade Lakes, ME. As founder of the camp, he inspired, mentored and was a role model to all. He also CoOwned Lakeside Development, where he worked to enhance the surrounding Belgrade Lakes area and preserve the environment. For all those who knew him by his white knuckle handshake, he truly left a lasting impression! Jim loved antique cars, football, water and snow skiing, and his daily 4:00 swim in the lake. But mostly Jim loved his family. We hit the jack pot when it came to a husband, father, and Pa. His family and friends will miss him trumendously and will carry him in their hearts for eternity. In lieu of contributions, please visit www.caringbridge.org/visit/jameswilliams86 to share stories and memories of Jim.