James Leslie Williams was the son of James Williams Sr and Mary Cooley, born near Rolling Prairie, La Porte, Indiana. James was the twin brother of Charles Wesley Williams.

James married Mary Matilda Brooks in April 1869 in Barry County, Michigan.

James and Mary had six children:

*Nora Adelle 'Della' Williams, 1871 – 1937, m. Wm Arthur Amy
*Cora Bell Williams, 1874 – 1923, m. Orange Porter Fales
*Fred Leslie Williams, 1878 – 1940, m. Rose Mallet, m. Lizzie Mallet
*John Edward "Ed" Williams, 1882 – 1956, m. Pearl Laura Johnson
*James Albert (Bert) Williams III, 1890 – 1975, m. Reva L Johnson
*Florence May Williams, 1893 – 1972, m. Clyde F Fisher

Probably from Middleville Sun; April 1918:

"James L. Williams was born at Rolling Prairie, Indiana, June 8, 1840, and died at his home near Middleville, Michigan, April 19, 1918. He was married to Mary M. Brooks in April, 1869, who preceded him to the spirit world two years. To this union were born six children: Della Amy, and John Edward, of Leroy, Michigan; Cora Fales, of Wayland, Michigan; James Albert, of Grand Rapids, Michigan; Florence Fisher, of Hastings, Michigan, and Fred Leslie, at whose home he died. He is also survived by three sisters, twenty-one grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, together with many other relatives and a host of friends who will mourn his departure. A twin brother dropped dead on his way to attend the funeral. He was a member of the Gregoryville class where his powerful prayers and testimonies were an inspiration to all. He will be greatly missed. He was converted at Bunker Hill, Indiana, about thirty-seven years ago and joined the Free Methodist church and was a faithful member until death. Funeral services conducted by the writer, assisted by Rev. G.W. Kiffer, of Hastings. His body was laid to rest to await the resurrection morning. William A Feighner"