Louisa Georgia (Jackson) Williams

Louisa G. Williams

Mrs. Louisa G. Williams of Fayetteville, GA, passed May 19, 2021. Crypt side service will be held on Thursday, June 3, 2021 at 11 a.m. at South-view Cemetery, with Dr. Dwight Andrews, officiating.

Louisa Georgia Jackson Williams, a devoted wife, loving mother, exemplary teacher and loyal sister and friend to many, was born in Atlanta, Georgia on October 11, 1942 to Harriet Oswell Jackson and Stephen A. Jackson. She was the oldest of her siblings, Adrian and Stephanie. Her twin sister died at birth. Louisa began her education at Oglethorpe Elementary School and graduated in 1960 from David T. Howard High School. Louisa enrolled at Spelman College and graduated in 1964 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology.

Louisa was a child of First Congregational Church, United Church of Christ and was an active member throughout her childhood and adult life.

As a child, Louisa was a beautiful, graceful dancer, who also enjoyed singing, playing the piano, dressing-up and swimming. Her childhood goal was to swim the English Channel! Her dance talent stretched from Tap, Jazz, Creative dance to Ballet (Pointe), and of course, the latest rock-and-roll dance moves. Once she performed a memorable ballet solo to “Ave Maria” which ultimately became one of her favorite pieces of music. Louisa was always fascinated with beautiful things - fashion, jewelry, art and interior design. She was a passionate shopper with a keen eye for finding unique and exquisite items and, as well as, finding great deals!

Louisa’s love for singing led her to join her high school and college glee clubs. She once imagined forming the “Jackson Sisters”, but… She met her future husband, Richard, a Morehouse student, while she was a freshman at Spelman
College. After graduating in 1964, Louisa started her career as an educator with the Atlanta Public Schools. She and Richard married on July 2, 1966 and moved to Kalamazoo, Michigan during the deep cold, snowy season. Their son Stephen and daughter Cheryl were born there.

Louisa taught in the Kalamazoo, Downingtown, Pennsylvania and Atlanta school systems for 35 years. Distinction as an
educator was recognized when she was selected “teacher of the year” at Dowingtown’s West Bradford Elementary School and named one of the outstanding national teachers during the latter part of her career. She retired in 1998.
 

In 2000, Louisa and Richard returned to Atlanta. During her retirement, she developed a love for scrapbooking and making cards. Characterized by beautiful embellishments and lush colors, her cards combined simplicity with sophistication and were popular gift items in the Atlanta area. She became a member of the Magnolia Links and was loyal to its mission of “friendship and service.” The Diaconate of First Congregational Church called her to service. She answered and became a dedicated servant of the Church. Her membership in the Waziri Ife Book Club was not only a source for stimulating conversation and thought-provoking ideas, but was always fun-time to spend with good
friends!
 

Louisa was an awesome wife, mother and grandmother. Her motto was “I’m a Grammy… what’s your superpower?” She always put her family first making sure their needs were taken care of in spite of her own health challenges. Her love, generosity and compassion for her family were spread to extended family members and friends as well. Louisa was the epitome of strength and fortitude. She was a role model to us all.

Louisa leaves to cherish her memories and carry on her legacy her husband of 54 years, Richard, daughter Cheryl, son Stephen (Mei-ying), grandson Amil (the unquestionable sunshine of her life), sister Adrian Brown (George), as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. “The true measure of a person is how well she or he treats those who have nothing to offer in return.” Louisa truly cared about all those she encountered, no matter their walk in life. Whether you had a brief encounter or many years of friendship, her kind spirit will stay with you forever.

Because of Louisa’s passionate support of education, the family requests that in lieu of flowers donations be made to Spelman College in her honor. If you wish to make a donation, please mail checks to 350 Spelman Lane, SW, Box 1303, Atlanta, GA 30314 or make an online donation at www.spelmanlane.org/giving. In both instances, please specify your gift is “In memory of Louisa Jackson Williams, C’64.”

Funeral Service will take place on Thursday, June 3, 2021 at 11:00 am, South-View Cemetery, 1990 Jonesboro Road, SE. Atlanta, GA 30313.  Viewing will be held on June 2, 2021 from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm at the Carl M. Williams Funeral Home Chapel, 492 Larkin Street, SW. Atlanta, GA. 30313 [Please practice social distancing]

On the day of service, please meet in front of the Cemetery Office to join processional to the burial site. Because seating is very limited, seats will be made available preferentially to those in need.  Social distancing is required and masks are encouraged.  No overhead shelter will be available; bring back-up umbrellas, if desired.

Graveside Celebration of Life Services for Louisa Williams will be recorded and streamed live. In the event the service is interrupted at any time due to technical issues, the entire service will be uploaded and available to view later in the day. Please copy and paste the link to share, or simply click on the link to view the service.

https://vimeo.com/555239046