Olivia Williams

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.” II Timothy 4:7-8 (KJV)

Our loved one, Olivia Anderson Williams departed this life on Saturday, May 4, 2024. A native of Holland (now Suffolk), Virginia, she was born on August 28, 1928. She was the fourth child of the late Prince and Melzena Anderson. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, James G. Williams; son, Cecil J. Williams; brothers, Smith Anderson and Albert Anderson; and sister, Claudia A. Wright.

Mrs. Williams was educated in the public schools of Nansemond County (now Suffolk), Virginia. She was a 1947 graduate of Nansemond County Training School. She was a 1952 graduate of Virginia State College (now University) where she received a B.S. Degree in Education.

Mrs. Williams was a professional educator with 34 years of service. She began her teaching career in Dinwiddie County, VA in 1953. Two years later, she returned to her roots and was assigned by Nansemond County Public Schools (now Suffolk Public Schools) to teach at Nansemond County Training School (later Southwestern). For the remainder of her teaching career, she served students in the Holland community until her retirement in 1987.

During her professional career, she was a member of the National Education Association, Virginia Education Association, and the Education Association of Suffolk.

She was joined in holy matrimony to James G. Williams on December 23, 1953. They were married for 56 years until James’ passing in July 2010. They were a devoted couple and their love for each other was evident.

Mrs. Williams accepted Christ at an early age and joined Laurel Hill United Church of Christ. She was an active member of Laurel Hill until early adulthood. Later, she joined Mt. Sinai Baptist Church and remained a loyal and faithful member for 75 years.

At Mt. Sinai, she was a member of the Deaconess Ministry, Church School Teacher (Bible Class No. 2), Senior Choir, Women’s Chorus, Mass Choir, Inspirational Choir, Missionary Ministry, and Christian Women’s Fellowship Ministry. She served as the director for Vacation Bible School for several years.

Mrs. Williams was an accomplished vocalist with a melodious voice. Not only did she serve her church, she blessed others in the community as well. She enjoyed singing and sharing her talent which was a gift from God.

Mrs. Williams was loving, kind, and thoughtful. She had a giving spirit and took pleasure in sharing her blessings with others. Her family was her pride and joy and she loved them deeply.

She leaves to cherish her memory, her son, Anderson Boone; special niece (like a daughter), Mary A. Williams; one sister, Arzulia O’Neal; two grandchildren, Elliot Boone, Sr. (Tomika) and Kristy Boone; seven great grandchildren, Tyree Boone, Tyron Boone, Deja Yulee, Ariana Yulee, Ja’Mere Roberts, Elliot Boone, Jr., and Danyaisha White; devoted niece, Joann Jackson; brother-in-law, Ralph L. Williams; four godchildren, LaDonna W. Hopson, Ann L. Ricks, Robin W. Murphy, and Tori Copeland; nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

We are grateful to God for her life and its longevity. The memories of her life will be cherished and forever etched in the minds and hearts of our family. Thanks be to God for the impact she had on our lives! 

A viewing will be held 3:30-7:00 p.m. Thursday, May 16, 2024 in the Melvin J. Blowe Chapel of Crocker Funeral Home. A celebration of life will be held 11 a.m. Friday, May 17, 2024 at Mt. Sinai Baptist Church, 6100 Holy Neck Road, Suffolk, Virginia 23437. She will be laid to rest in Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Cemetery. In lieu of floral arrangements please consider donating to the "Capital Campaign Fund" at Mt. Sinai Baptist Church, (Olivia Williams), 6100 Holy Neck Road, Suffolk, Virginia 23437. Professional services with dignity have been entrusted to Crocker Funeral Home, Inc. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Olivia Williams, please visit our flower store.