Jimmy R. Williams Jr. was born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, on March 10, 1979, to Jimmy Sr. and Barbara Williams, and grew up as the youngest son of the Williams three children. In 2002, Jimmy married his college sweetheart, Chandra. They shared a beautiful life that spanned over two decades, welcoming their son Ace in 2013, whom Jimmy simply adored.

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Jimmy attended Episcopal School of Baton Rouge, where he excelled both academically and athletically. He was a standout in football, baseball, basketball, and track, and also participated in select choir, theater, and the Japanese Club, where he took part in a six-week exchange program to Japan.

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His exceptional talents earned him a full scholarship to Vanderbilt University. At Vanderbilt, Jimmy pursued a bachelor's degree in human and organizational development with a minor in health and human services. On the football field, he began his collegiate career as a running back, leading the team in rushing yards, return yards, receptions, and touchdowns, and earning a spot on the Freshman All-SEC Team. Following a position switch to cornerback, he continued to shine, earning All-SEC honors.

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In 2001, Jimmy was drafted into the NFL by the Buffalo Bills. After a pre-season stint with the Bills, he signed with the San Francisco 49ers, where he played for four seasons before moving to the Seattle Seahawks for two seasons and concluded his professional football career with the Houston Texans. 

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After retiring from the NFL, Jimmy returned to Episcopal School of Baton Rouge as a teacher and coach. He served as the defensive coordinator and assistant athletic director, continuing to inspire and mentor young athletes throughout his tenure.

 

Both of Jimmy's alma maters, Episcopal and Vanderbilt, have honored his achievements. Episcopal inducted him into their inaugural Hall of Fame class in 2005, and later, in 2013, he was inducted into the Southeastern Conference Legends Class representing Vanderbilt Football.

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Posthumously, Jimmy has been honored as one of the top 100 All-Time Vanderbilt football players, received special recognition from the NFL Legends Community, and was awarded the Baton Rouge Advocate's Spirit Award at their 37th annual Star of Stars event, honoring top athletes in the region.