James Williams

WILLIAMS - James Williams, 86, lifelong resident of New Mexico, passed away in his Albuquerque home on February 3, 2011. Jim was born in Las Vegas, NM where he grew up and went to high school. At the age of 17 he joined the Navy and served in the Pacific aboard the carrier ship USS Savo Island. He retired a Colonel from the New Mexico National Guard in 1982. From 1948-1979 Jim was a water rights engineer for the state of New Mexico. From 1979-1991 he was President and General Manager for New Mexico Utilities. He was also an active member of the New Mexico Amigos for a number of years traveling to numerous countries as a goodwill ambassador. Jim was a devoted son and husband, steadfastly caring for his wife Marilyn and his mother and step-father, Virgie and Jess Haverty. Jim is survived by his daughter, Debra Velasquez of California, his son, Mark Williams of Washington and step daughter, Melissa Pickett of New Mexico. He is also survived by his grandchildren Jill Benes, Ryan Benes, Karolyn Nigbor, Tyler Anderton, Ben Balkcom and Chris Balkcom. He is great-grandfather to Quinn Carroll, James Nigbor and Edward Nigbor. There is no service scheduled. Donations made in Jim's memory may be made to the American Heart Association, The American Cancer Society, or Alzheimers Association in memory of his mother. James' care has been entrusted to: Daniels Family Funeral Services 7601 Wyoming Blvd NE Albuquerque, NM 87109 (505) 821-0010