Murdis Williams James

Murdis Williams James was born in Salley, SC Aiken County on June 17, 1934. She was the baby girl born to Robert Lee Williams (d:1986) and Abell Ware Williams (d:1994). She had two sisters. The oldest Willie Mae Williams (Burke) and Gladys Williams. Murdis and her family moved to New York City in 1935 when Murdis was just one year old. She grew up in a house filled with love, laughter and family. Murdis attended and graduated from Jane Adams High School in Bronx, New York. On February 11, 1956, Murdis married Edwin Oliver James, who had just finished serving 3 years as a paratrooper in the United States Army. From this union they had 2 daughters. Sheila James (Fleming) and Antoinette James (Capers). Several years later, Murdis and Eddie separated. Murdis subsequently worked with the Normandie Press Company for many years as well as selling Avon and Naomi Simms wigs to provide for her daughters. Once her children were grown and had left home, she continued to work at Marshalls clothing store until she retired. "Murt" as she was affectionately known by friends and family, loved to travel. Throughout her life, she traveled extensively to the Caribbean, Hawaii, and was partial to taking cruises. In 2001, Murdis left New York and moved to Richmond, VA where both of her daughters are now living. During this time, Murdis enjoyed her retirement and the love and company of her grand & great-grandchildren. In October of 2016, after years of health problems including congestive heart failure, Murdis health began to decline. During this time, she continued to stay positive and strong despite her declining health. She fought through the pain all the while with a smile on her face. Unfortunately, she lost her battle and succumbed to her illness. Murdis had an infectious laugh that made everyone around her join in. Ever the snazzy dresser, aside from shopping she also loved to dance, share stories and spend quality time with her family. Murdis was genuinely loved and appreciated by her many nieces and nephews. She was well known for never forgetting a birthday and calling with loving messages each and every year. She leaves to mourn her daughters, Sheila D. James (Fleming) and Antoinette V. James (Capers); grandchildren, Ebony James, Jasmine Capers,Quincy Capers and Alisha Fleming; great-grandchildren, Jahiem Jerman and Kyrell Fleming; sisters, Willie Mae Burke, Gladys Williams, and Robbin Williams; son-in-laws, Kevin Capers and Elbert Fleming; a host of beloved nieces, nephews and friends.

Tributes

Murdis Williams James

June 17, 1934 - May 11, 2017