Elizabeth O. Williams
Elizabeth O. Williams, 81, of Stratford, CT, passed away on October 31, 2023 surrounded by her family and friends. Elizabeth was the mother of Dr. Yohuru (Alexandra) Williams, and grandmother of Mason ’20, Asa, and Ella Williams.
Elizabeth was born on May 2, 1942, in Chester Township, Pennsylvania. Elizabeth graduated from Chester High School in 1960 and later earned a degree in Early Childhood Education from Housatonic Community College in 1997. Throughout her life, Elizabeth had a diverse career. She volunteered as part of the first cohort of the Department of Education’s Toy-Lending program, in Back Office operations for Mechanics and Farmers Bank, and Research and Adjustment for Chase Bank. She also served as a Site Manager, Head Teacher, and Supervisor for ABCD’s Children's Garden. Elizabeth was a dedicated member of the NAEYC National Association of Young Children.
Elizabeth was a woman of faith and worshiped at Redeeming Life Freewill Baptist Church until its closing in 2021. During her time there, she served as a youth and adult Sunday school teacher and was highly regarded as the Mother of the church. In recent years, she became a member of the Abundant Life Healing and Deliverance Church of Bridgeport, where she also served as a Mother.
She was the loving wife of the late Ralph Y. Williams. She is survived by two sons, Yotisse (Geraldine) Williams (Connecticut) and Dr. Yohuru (Alexandra) Williams (Minnesota); and one daughter, Yohanna (Paul) VanHandel (Connecticut); as well as seven grandchildren, Mason Williams, Yariah Lynn Williams, Asa Williams, Gerressi
Williams, Ella Williams, Gerryiki Williams and Yoniah Jayne Williams.
Elizabeth O. Williams will be deeply missed by her loved ones and the community she was a part of. Her dedication to her career, her passion for her hobbies, and her unwavering faith will be remembered by all who knew her.
Memorials can be made to the Dougherty Family College and Racial Justice Initiative to support her love of and dedication to education.