"An unrelenting spark in the rain."

James Edward Williams IV went to be with the Lord on October 3rd, 2025. He is lovingly remembered for his resilience, his deep affection for his children, his boundless creativity, and his remarkable ability to find joy—even in the darkest moments.

A proud alumnus of Seffner Christian Academy, James carried his strength and compassion into every part of his life.

He was a devoted single father whose greatest joy was the love of his children. He leaves behind his beloved son, James Levi Williams, and his cherished daughter, Jahyna Lee Ann Williams. He also lovingly embraced Carter Leigh Saunders and Coy Leland Saunders—James and Jahyna's brother and sister—as his own. His love for all four children was unwavering and fierce.

James is survived by his loving mother, Kimberly Desautell; his father, James Edward Williams Jr.; his brother, Dominick Louis Williams; his sister, Cierrah Ann Williams; and his grandfather, James Edward Williams Sr. He is also mourned by his grandmother, Darlene Marie Desautell.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Louis Albert Desautell, and his paternal grandmother, Shirley Ann Williams.

In addition to his immediate family, James leaves behind numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins on both sides of the family, all of whom held a special place in his heart and will continue to cherish his memory.

Throughout his life, James worked in the service industry, where his kindness, humility, and work ethic left lasting impressions. He gave freely—often when he had little to give—and offered comfort, laughter, and light to those who needed it most. Known for his generosity, quick wit, rapturous hugs, and infectious smile, James had a rare gift for lifting spirits and helping others through life's hardest days.

Outside of work, James was a passionate music creator and found great joy in making memories with his children. He will be remembered for his unwavering love for family, his creative soul, and the kindness he extended to everyone—especially when it wasn't easy.

Funeral Arrangements

Viewing

Friday, October 17, 2025

6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Serenity Meadows Memorial Park

6919 Providence Rd., Riverview, FL 33578

Funeral Service

Saturday, October 18, 2025

9:30 AM – 10:30 AM

Generation's Church

2602 S. Kings Ave., Brandon, FL 33511

Burial (Immediately Following)

11:00 AM

Serenity Meadows Memorial Park

6919 Providence Rd., Riverview, FL 33578

Repass / Celebration of Life

11:45 AM – 3:00 PM

Fraternal Order of Eagles

1810 Front St., Valrico, FL 33594

James's infectious smile, joyful spirit, and boundless love will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.