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Celebrating the life of

Jesse J. Williams, III

September 06, 1970 - April 07, 2022

Jesse J. Williams, III

Click here to view Jesse's service (the livestream link will be available at 12:45 p.m. on Saturday, April 16, 2022).

Jesse J. Williams, III,  51, died unexpectedly on Thursday, April 7, 2022 at Baptist Medical Center in Jacksonville, FL.

Although born in Newark, NJ on September 6, 1970, Jesse was a Pennsylvanian through and through. Jesse’s adopted parents, Charlotte and Jessie J. Williams, Jr. resided in Pennsylvania as they anxiously awaited their bundle of joy. 

Jesse’s early education was at Newtown Friends School, a private educational institution in Newtown, PA. Jesse was influenced by the Quaker faith. The Quaker testimonies of integrity, equality, simplicity, stewardship of the earth and peace along with a sprinkling of the Baptist faith by his parents shaped Jesse into the extraordinary man that was loved by many and will be dearly missed by all that knew him.

Jesse continued his higher education at Pennington School in Pennington, NJ, a private school that teaches their students Presbyterian principals along with perseverance, integrity, and commitment. Jesse later attended Kutztown University in Kutztown, PA. 

Jesse met the love of his life, Shawn Ziemba Williams in 1991. Jesse and Shawn were married in November, 2001. Their relationship of love and friendship was something worthy of admiration.

Jesse excelled in business and financial services. By watching both of his parents engage in their own businesses. Jesse developed an entrepreneurial spirit as a young boy. At the age of 28, he started his own business, CJ Metals, a steel distribution company. Jesse and Shawn left Pennsylvania to be closer to his parents and settled in St. Augustine, FL where he worked for BYO playgrounds. At his passing, Jesse was employed by Dunbar, LLC in Las Vegas, NV.

Jesse leaves to mourn Shawn, his wife of 21 years; mother and father, Jessie and Charlotte of Savannah; mother-in-law, Susanne Mullineaux of St. Augustine; his brother-in-law and his wife, Frank and Nicola Ziemba of Seminole, FL, and their two children, Eddie and Kendall.

Jesse’s aunts and uncles include James and Bonnie Watson of Wrightstown, NJ, Patricia Barbour of Washinton, PA, Carol Harris of Warrenton, VA, Donna and George Reese of Annandale, VA, Kenneth and Beth Watson of Harleysville, PA, and June and Playtel Benjamin of New York, NY, Natanel Williams of Road Rockingham, VA, Johnnie Williams of Greeleyville, SC, Wilhelmena and Albert Nelson of Columbia, SC, Margaret Williams of Columbia, SC, and Joseph Williams of Burlington, NJ; and a host of cousins spread throughout the United States. 

The family would like to make a special acknowledgement of Julius Williams of Burlington, NJ who passed away two days after his nephew.

A bereaved acknowledgement to Jesse’s dog, Kimo Williams. At Jesse’s request, the ashes of his first dog, Sparky, will be laid to rest with him. 

Special friends and family include Michelle Symes of St. Augustine, FL; Johnnie Holmes of Virginia Beach, VA, Alonzo Skerett of Orlando, FL, Sara Whals of Denver, CO, Kim Bimestefer of Denver, CO, Robert and Barbara Mulkey of Savannah, and Deborah and Frank Gray of Jacksonville.

A celebration of Jesse’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 16, 2022  at Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel. Burial will follow in Greenwich section of Bonaventure Cemetery. A repass will follow at 3:30 p.m. at the Grand Lake Club, 815 Southbridge Blvd, Savannah, GA 31405. He will lie in state at Fox & Weeks, Hodgson Chapel on Thursday from 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m and on Friday from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be sent to the Humane Society for Greater Savannah, 7215 Sallie Mood Drive, Savannah, GA  31406

SHARE YOUR CONDOLENCES

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GUEST BOOK

My heart goes out to JJ wife and family. You will truly be missed.

- Johnnie Oliver Holmes, Chesapeake, VA

I worked with JJ for several years and our friendship has lasted. I’m sooo saddened by his loss and send all my love and prayers to your family!

- Molly Donia, West Chester, PA

My thoughts and prayers are with Jesses family. He was one of a kind and such a bright light! Always sharing his warm smile and kindness! I am thankful to have known him!

- Dena Caffro, East Fallowfield, PA

Shawn, my love, condolences, and prayers go out to you and JJ’s family. Please know your Syracuse Sistahs are here for you. JJ was a sweetheart of a person and will surely be missed. May God comfort you during this very difficult time.

- Vera Jones, Jacksonville, FL

We meet angels in the form of: Son, Sibling, Nephew, Cousin, Husband, Friend, and Associate. JJ was that blessed Angel who shared his amazing gift of love with everyone; and in a more special way with his Mom & Dad: Charlotte & Jesse; Wife:Shawn; and Family Members. JJ was my nephew; and a lil' brother too. I love and miss him; but I take comfort in knowing that heaven has another Angel watching over us! My prayers and love to my other Mom&Dad, Charlotte and Jesse; and JJ's beloved Wife, Shawn; & Family. Aunt/Sister Deborah Gray, Jacksonville, FL

- Deborah A. Gray, Jacksonville, Florida

So untimely. JJ and I went to high school together. Decades after graduation, we ended up living within hours of each other and made it a point to visit. What a wonderful day that was. I regret not visiting more often :( On behalf of my wife Cindy and myself, we send our deepest sympathies to JJ's family.

- matthew grow, Ocala, Fl

So many childhood memories. Mr and Mrs. Williams and Shawn I am so sorry for your loss.

- Bertina lawson, Mount laurel , Nj

The loss of JJ is so huge. He was our across the street neighbor and was without a doubt the kindest man with a smile that lit up the world. We understand why - with all going on in the world - why God needed to bring him home - kindness and love will light up the heavens for our friend. Our hearts go out to his family.

- Shan and Jim, St. Augustine, FL

I'm truly heartbroken by the loss of my big brother J.J. He was always an aspirational and protective figure to me growing up and will be dearly missed. May you Rest In Peace J.J.

- Andrew Lear, Los Angeles , California

My blessings are extended to JJ's family and friends. Shawnee, my SU Sistah, I pray Jehovah Shalom holds you close during this time and always. Your SU Sistahs are here for you today and always. I love you and may God's blessings and mercies cover you. Agape.

- Davita Carpenter, Santa Clarita , CA

Our condolences and sympathies to the parents, wife, and to JJ's extended family. My wife and I didn't get to know JJ, personally. But his parents, Charlotte and Jesse, shared so much about him over the years we have known them, that I know he was a fine young man who made them so proud. Charlotte would even light up when she'd cancel our bridge games because JJ was coming to Savannah for a visit. Emma and I are pained for their loss of their son. May he rest in the presence of the Lord.

- Frank Howard, Savannah, GA

Our family morn with you and your family in your hour of grief for you beloved son, JJ. Think of all the good times and sweet moments you shared with him while you had him. Those will sustain you in his absence.

- Emma Howard, Ocoee, FL

Jesse my friend.. I just got this heartbreaking news. The world will be a little less happy without you in it. Rest in peace my friend. My deepest heartfelt condolences to the family and friends. God be with you.

- Cindy Gress, Green Cove Springs, FL

A candle has been lit!

- Walker family , NORRISTOWN, PA

Shawn and Family, words cannot express how sorry I am about JJ's loss. I'm really going to miss chatting with him about silly reality TV, hearing his laugh, seeing his smile, and hearing him call me "buddy." JJ was a kind, loving, genuine man. Sending love and hugs and strength at this difficult time.

- Tara Roach, Philadelphia, PA

A candle has been lit!

We grew up as inseparable best friends. You and those memories will always be in my heart JJ. Love you brother Joe

- Joe Lear, Phoenix, AZ

JJ was my bestie. We met when I was 13 yrs old. So many memories and great stories and of course he gave me Shawn. My sister. I will miss everything about him every day moving forward. I loved him so much. Thank you for always caring about me JJ and please keep a watch on me. Life is hard. I still need you. I love you. A big hug to his parents because they are the best and JJ was so grateful for them. He loved his Mommy. I do too. I'm so sad but feel so lucky to have had him in my life. He was the best JJ anyone could ever ask for. Hugs to everyone.

- Michelle Cardiello, Chatsworth, NJ

A candle has been lit!

- Deborah & Frank Gray, Jacksonville, Florida

Rest easy cousin

- Alphonse Gamble (cousin) , Ludowic , Georgia

JJ as I remember was,à friendly and respectful person Hé was friendly with my 2 sons. I,saw him grow up to be à great person and à good family man

- Robert Lear, Boynton Beach , Florida

We are so sorry for your loss. Let us know how we can help in any way.

- Billy and Del Willis, Savannah, Georgia

JJ was always so kind to others. His smile always lit up the room. JJ's kindness was infectious. He was always paying it forward. My condolences to his family.

- Kai Lee, Prescott Valley , AZ

Shawn, my condolences to you and the family. I’m so sorry for your loss. JJ was a great person and I’ll forever cherish the great memories I have with you both from years long passed. I am thankful that God brought you both into my life. Rest In Peace my friend.

- Anthony Graham, Chalfont , Pa

Prayers and condolences to the family. Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 shares so much about life. Jessie and Charlotte you were blessed to have such an awesome son!

- Patricia Swift-Jordan , Savannah, GA

It is better to have loved than to never have loved at all. We are praying for you.

- Cousins Annette & Dwayne Hall, Philadelphia , Pa

My deepest condolences to my Aunt Charlotte and Uncle Jessie. I was blessed to meet JJ when I was younger. Went skiing with him and the family and had tons of fun with lots of laughs. Recently had reconnected through social media, I am sad at this occasion. Fly high my sweet cousin!

- Anna Bryant, Las Vegas, Nevada

Condolences from the Gosyne Family. To my Friends Charlotte and Jessie Williams Jr Parents of Jessie Williams 111 Who went to be with the Lord on 7th of April May RIP

- Gloria Gosyne , Savannah, Georgia

Condolences from the Gosyne Family. To my Friends Charlotte and Jessie Williams Jr Parents of Jessie Williams 111 Who went to be with the Lord on 7th of April May RIP

- Gloria Gosyne , Savannah, Georgia

Shawn, I am so sorry for the loss of Jesse. He was one of the most genuine and passionate people that I have ever met. He was a great co-worker and a great all around guy. I enjoyed his deep knowledge of sports, especially football. We spent many hours discussing sports and business. Jesse, Godspeed and RIP my friend.

- Rob Eberle, Lansdale, PA

I’m so so sorry to hear about Jesse’s passing. I was the chaplain at the Pennington school when Jesse attended and I remember him as a wonderful young man. I trust that he has been “Promoted to Glory”. Peace, John.

- Rev. John W. Groth, Newark, DE

A candle has been lit!

Our prayers are with you and Charlotte and the family in the loss of your son, JJ. The loss of our loved one is often difficult. I pray you find comfort in the fond memories you have in your heart that you’ve shared together. May God’s love give you strength and peace.

- Carolyn Williams, Philadelphia, PA

A candle has been lit!

Sorry for lost Mr. And Mrs. Jessie Williams.

- Jeanette Cummings, Ailey, Georgia

JJ was a role model for how to be in this world. Honest, kind and caring. Fun, energetic and positive. Deepest sympathy for you Shawn- and the entire family.

- Hunter Rosen, Oro Valley, Arizona

We were so saddened to hear of JJ’s passing. We are praying for comfort for Shawn and his entire family.

- Gene and Michelle King, Citrus Springs , FL

My deepest sympathies are extended to JJ’s family and his dear wife Shawn. My your find comfort and healing during this difficult time.

- Patrice Amos Brown, Upper Marlboro , MD

Mrs. Charlotte and family my deepest condolences on your son Jesse! Keeping you and your family in my prayers, please call me

- Rochelle Bruin, Savannah , Ga

JJ was always a kind, sweet man. My memories from the old days are of JJ always positive and smiling. My condolences to Shawn, Mr. and Mrs. Williams and to all of his family and friends. May his memory be for a blessing.

- Philice Krevolin, Philadelphia, PA

Dearest Charlotte, Jessie, Shawn and Family, I was so heartbroken to hear of JJ's passing. He was always such a bright shining star, and I remember so many years when all of our kids played together and shared special times and so much fun. I loved when he was in the house with us and always considered him part of the family. He will always be remembered with love, smiles and affection, and may JJ's memory be a blessing. Sending lots of love, Carole

- Carole Lear Marcus, Boca Raton, FL

Shawn, Mr. and Mrs. Williams and family- I am so sorry to hear of JJ’s passing. My heart goes out to all of you at this terrible time.

- Linda Shanahan, Doylestown , PA

I am truly sorry for his passing. I got to know JJ when I was living in New Hope PA. My prayers are with his family.

- Sandra Everts Scheffer , Utrecht , Netherlands

Services under the direction of:

Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200