James R. "Mutt" Williams, age 84, a resident of East Prairie, Missouri, passed away Tuesday, March 15, 2022, at Aspire Senior Living Center in East Prairie.  He was born October 3, 1937, in New Madrid County, Missouri to the late Burl Williams and Floy England Williams.  He was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and was employed in construction before retiring.  He also owned Mutt Feed Store.  James was an avid coon hunter and loved fishing.

On June 11, 1958, at First General Baptist Church, he married the former Betty Ward.  They were married 64 years and were faithful members of First General Baptist.

In addition to his wife Betty, survivors include two sons, Jeff Williams and Tim Williams, both of East Prairie; one granddaughter, Alicia Harper of East Prairie; two grandchildren, Madelyn Laplant and Mary Grace Garnett, both of East Prairie; one brother, Howard Ray "Tinker" Williams of East Prairie; many relatives and friends.

Mutt was preceded in death by his parents and one son, Randy Williams; one brother, Travis W. Williams; and one sister, Doris Adkisson.

Graveside funeral services will be held Sunday, March 20, 2022, at 11 a.m. at Dogwood Cemetery, with full military honors.

Interment will immediately follow under the direction of Shelby Funeral Home.