James “Bozo” Winfred Williford, 86, of Rosie, peacefully transitioned on November 26, 2023. Born on October 22, 1937, to Raymond and Unia (Western) Williford. James found solace in farming, cattle, and the melodies of his guitar and singing. An Independence County Sheriff’s deputy for several years under Sheriff Walker Wood, he served his community with dedication. James also had a passion for auto racing. Yet, the true joy of his life lay in the embrace of family, creating cherished moments that will forever resonate. James Winfred Williford’s legacy is one of hard work, community service, and the enduring love he shared with those closest to him. His memory lives on in the echoes of his music and the warmth of family bonds.
He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Patricia Williford; his son, Tim Williford; his daughter, Teresa Williford; his grandson, Colton Williford; his brothers, Lamon Ray Williford, Willis Ray Williford, and Edgar Williford; his sister, Katherine Ball.
He is survived by his sons, Jimmy (Cindy) Williford of Oil Trough and Andy (Christy) Williford of Rosie; his sisters, Marjorie Cline of Witchita, Kansas; his grandchildren, Marty (Ashley) Williford, Kyle (Nancy) Williford, Jesse (Stephanie) Williford, Amber (Marlin) Dotson, Bryson (Katelyn) Williford, Heather(Chad) Connell and Tracy Bellingrath; his great-grandchildren, Regan Dotson, Marlin Dotson, Sawyer Williford, Rylan Williford, Hayden Williford, Myles Williford, Malachai Strong, Serenity Sockey, Kolten Cox, and Zaiden Barnes.
Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Jason Barber, Calvin Salter, Jody Davis, Kimmy Looney, Randall Looney and Charles Magness. Honorary pallbearers are James Roy Young, John Roberson and Glenneth St. John.
Service will be at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, December 1, 2023, at Maple Springs Baptist Church with interment at Maple Springs Cemetery. Visitation will be from 1:00 until service time.
In lieu of flowers, the family would like for donations to be made to Maple Springs Missionary Baptist Church.
