Ruling Eder James E. Williams was born and raised in the Church of God by Faith. He is the son of Superintendent Emeritus Elder James and the late Mother Cora Williams of the Gainesville District. He was saved at age 16. After graduation from high school, Elder Williams enlisted in the United States Army. He married Lillie Hampton in December 1968.
Elder Williams moved to Tampa in 1970 to further his education. He served under the leadership of Elder Robert L. Evens and Superintendent Albert Landers, Jr. During this time, he served in several capacities including chairman deacon at Little Rock COGBF, assistant finance secretary on the South Florida District and finance board chairman of the Tampa Westcoast District. He was appointed to the National Finance Board in 1975 and served for 17 years. He served as secretary to the board for eight years.
Elder Williams accepted his call into the ministry in 1991 and was ordained in December 1998.
Elder Williams pastored New Life Church of God by Faith in Ft. Myers, Florida for ten years. He also pastored two years at Plant City, Florida. In December 2008, Elder Williams was appointed Superintendent of the Tampa Westcoast District, and was elected Ruling Elder in December 2014.
Elder Williams is a retired postmaster for the United States Postal Service where he served for 35 years.
Elder Williams has a compassion for people and souls. Through obedience to God’s voice and His word, many have experienced salvation, healing, and deliverance from his teachings. He has a vision for the local church and the district. He believes in excellence, the power of prayer, and submitting always to the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Presently, Elder James E. Williams is the pastor of The Rock Church of God by Faith, Tampa, Florida, District Superintendent of the Tampa Westcoast District and Executive Secretary of the Executive Council. Ruling Elder Williams and Mother Lillie Williams are the parents of five children, 12 grandchildren, and four great grandchildren.