Belize has lost one of its greatest and most resilient entrepreneurs. Reports reaching Amandala this morning are that James Williams, Sr., 57, proprietor of James Bus Line of Punta Gorda, Toledo, passed away suddenly this morning.
His wife, Joan Williams, 50, told Amandala that they were shocked when they heard the news, because Williams had gotten up this morning and done his usual routine, including taking their young son to school.
However, at about 8:50 this morning, while James Williams, Sr., was sitting inside his truck and speaking with his son, James, Jr., he suddenly collapsed.
Doctors say he died from a heart attack, his wife told us.
Williams had been active up to the time of his death, his wife explained. Two years ago, he was diagnosed with hypertension and diabetes. He ate well, but did not like to walk, though his doctor recommended that he do so. He was, however, on medical treatment until his death, said his wife, Joan.
The couple, together for 32 years, has six children: Evan, Loretta, Bryan, James, Laura and Alex; and 7 grandchildren.
James Williams, Sr., is also survived by siblings, including those abroad in the US and Jamaica.
Because they will travel to Belize for the funeral, final burial arrangements remain pending but should be set by Thursday, said Mrs. Williams.
She thanks all those supporters and friends who have stood by their side in the business, as well as those who have called personally today to convey their condolences.
James Williams, Sr., will be sadly missed. He started out working for Ramclam Bus Service 34 years ago, and at the age of 29, ventured into his own enterprise – James Bus Line, which he had been operating for 28 years.
Many other operators have come and gone, crushed by a system that actively supported, financed and promoted a bus monopoly. James weathered the storm and survived against the odds. His wife told us that the family intends to keep the enterprise going strong, while continuing to serve their faithful patrons of south and central Belize.
Even though the Punta Gorda office is closed today due to the sudden and untimely passing, the buses are still servicing the roads, said his wife, who said she will continue to run the business along with their three sons: Evan, James and Bryan.
James Williams is predeceased by his parents, Henry and Beatrice Williams, of Punta Gorda.