James D. Williamson was born in New Orleans, LA., and grew up in Louisiana.  He graduated, with his Bachelor's degree from Georgia Tech, in Atlanta, GA, completing his graduate studies at Purdue University.  He served in the U.S. Army for 2 years, as an Air Defense Artillery Officer. On leaving the military, James spent his working career with G.E. and Ericsson, first in manufacturing and then in information systems, primarily in Lynchburg.

Barbara was born in Fort Worth, TX., and grew up in Texas and Louisiana.  She is a graduate of Mary Washington College in Fredericksburg, VA.  She and James met at an early age, then attended the same junior high school in New Orleans.  They lived in the same neighborhood and attended the same church, both singing in the youth choir.

The two have mutual interests of singing, traveling, and playing bridge.  James also enjoys genealogy, computers and investment management.  Barbara spends her time reading, doing several kinds of needlework, and playing games.

Barbara & James have 3 sons: David in Mobile, AL, Mark in Dallas, TX, and Scott in Cumming, GA; they have 9 grandchildren.