Shirley Ann Williams' Obituary
Shirley Ann (White) Williams, age 87, a lifelong resident of Chattanooga, Tennessee, passed away on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, in a local hospital. Born in Los Angeles, California, in 1937, Shirley often shared the story of her and her mother’s move to Tennessee when she was just a tiny girl, unable to walk, talk, or care for herself. She would lovingly recount how the move to Chattanooga, Tennessee, was the cure—though she always left out the small detail that she was only a month-old baby at the time.
Shirley loved telling stories, recounting her life experiences, and reflecting on the lessons she had learned. A proud graduate of Howard High School, Class of 1955, she went on to attend Tennessee State University. She was a devoted member of the Tyner Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses since 1972, where she found comfort and purpose in her life. Her response to the question, "How are you doing?" became a hallmark of her personality: “Considering my age and afflictions, I’m doing fairly well.” It was a reply that always left others unsure whether to laugh or nod in agreement.
In her later years, Shirley found joy in simple pleasures—whether indulging in ice cream, enjoying game shows, or trying new activities she had never done before. She was rarely seen without her crossword puzzle book, which seemed to be an inseparable part of her life, like a purse she carried wherever she went. Shirley cherished connecting with family and friends, always making time for a quick phone call to check in, especially with her best friend, Marjorie, with whom she would share a few words like, "Hello, how are you feeling, girl I’m out and about right now—I'll call you later. Bye!"
A woman who deeply appreciated God's creation and the people in her life, Shirley's kindness, warmth, and nurturing spirit left a lasting impact on all who knew her. She had a natural inclination to help others, especially her grandchildren, and her genuine love for her family and community will be deeply missed.
Shirley was preceded in death by her father, Lawrence T. White, and her mother, Mildred N. Martin.
She is survived by her sister, Shelia White of Los Angeles, CA; several cousins; her four children: Romel Williams, Benji Williams, both of Atlanta, GA, Carmen (Walter) Daugherty, and Dana Williams, both of Chattanooga; eight grandchildren: Aaron (Ashlee) Williams, Justyn (Jannkie) Meriwether, Ayesha Meriwether, Jeremy Williams, Jered Lindsey, Alexander (Kristi) Daugherty, Oliver Daugherty, and Daniel Daugherty; many great-grandchildren; and her long-time best friend and sister, Marjorie Baker.
Shirley will lie-in-state on Friday, March 28, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at Taylor Funeral Home. The funeral service will follow at 3:00 p.m. in the chapel with Pete Ensign giving the Discourse.
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