Ellis James “Willie” Williamson, 103, passed away peacefully on Memorial Day, May 25, 2026 – a fitting final salute to a true American hero and member of the Greatest Generation.
Born on April 16, 1923 in Gallatin, Texas, Ellis lived a life defined by courage, resilience, service, hard work, and love for family and friends. He graduated from Gallatin High School in 1941 before answering the call to serve his country during World War II. Before leaving for service, he met his future wife at the skating rink.
Ellis proudly served in the United States Army Air Corps as a Staff Sergeant and Flight Engineer/Gunner with the 397th Bomb Group aboard a B-26 Marauder bomber. He flew dangerous combat missions over Europe, including missions during D-Day and the Battle of the Bulge. During what was to be his final mission before returning home, his aircraft was shot down over Germany on December 23, 1944. Ellis survived by parachuting from the burning aircraft and endured months as a prisoner of war until his liberation in April 1945.
After returning home from the war, Ellis married the love of his life, Antoinette Lima, and together they built a life centered on faith, family, community, and perseverance. They were married for 45 years.
Following his military service, Ellis dedicated many years to his professional career with Devoe Paint, where he won several awards and became the company’s top salesman. He was known for his strong work ethic, leadership, integrity, and the respect he earned from coworkers and friends alike.
Beyond his service and career, Ellis truly enjoyed life. He later remarried his second love and wife, Priscilla (Pat) Carrick, and they remained together for 23 years. He loved fishing, traveling to World War II reunions and memorial events, and was always ready for a road trip – often driving straight through without hesitation. He especially enjoyed breakfast and lunch outings with friends and could frequently be found sharing stories and laughter at Jerry’s Restaurant or Lone Star Charlie’s. Above all else, Ellis treasured time spent visiting with family and friends.
Ellis was also a proud supporter of many organizations throughout his life, including MD Anderson, the Houston SPCA, and the Masonic community for 70 years, and Shriners Hospital. He believed deeply in helping others and giving back without expecting anything in return.
Ellis is survived by his sister, Kaye Von Bostock; children, Janice and Mike Lenz, Cindri Case; grandchildren, Tiffany and Matt Kerr, Jeremy and Jenise Rice, Misty Veteto, and Jason Lenz; 10 great-grandchildren; and five great-great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Lena Mae and Elmer J. Williamson; his beloved wife, Antionette Williamson; son, Ellis James (Baby Jamie) Williamson; daughter and son-in-law, Pamela and David Dickson; second wife, Priscilla (Pat) Carrick; daughter and son-in-law, Nikki and Gary Waits; siblings and spouses, Jonell and Angelo Spedale, Eleen and James Bridges, Francis and Frank Hamby, Bill and Betty Williamson, Nolan Jack Williamson, Louis Edwin and Ardath Williamson, Aldon (A.L.) and Helen Williamson; and by fellow servicemen and lifelong friends he never forgot.
Those who knew Ellis will remember his quiet strength, sharp memory, storytelling, humor, generosity, and unwavering patriotism. Despite all he endured during the war, he remained humble throughout his life. When reflecting on his military service, Ellis once said: “Wouldn’t give anything for it, but wouldn’t want to do it again.”
His legacy of courage, sacrifice, kindness, and love will continue through the many lives he touched across generations.
Today, we honor not only a veteran, but a husband, father, grandfather, friend, neighbor, and true patriot.
May Ellis James Williamson rest in eternal peace, reunited with those he loved and be forever remembered with gratitude and honor.
The family of Ellis would like to recognize and say a special thank you to Newt and Melissa Capps, Debbie and Rickey Wood, and Danny Luna. They all took the best of care and help to let him live his days at home, driving him every day to breakfast, caring for his needs at home, making sure he was always safe, keeping the yard and house looking pristine – just like he always liked it. They are what true friends look like. We love you and appreciate all you have done for him and for us.
Services will be held at Cochran Funeral Home in Onalaska, Texas on June 6, 2026. Visitation will be held at 9 a.m. and the service at 10 a.m., followed by a graveside service at Piney Grove Cemetery in Gallatin, Texas at 2 p.m.
