ELMIRA, NY - "Allow the light and the healing presence of Christ to shine brightly through your lives. In that way, all those who come in contact with you will discover the loving kindness of God."

— St. Pope John Paul II

Mrs. Shirley Ann Williams, age 85, of Elmira, New York, passed away peacefully in her home on Thursday morning, October 23, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on December 5, 1939, in Early Branch, South Carolina, one of eight children born to the late Edgar and Lucille Owens.

On September 14, 1955, she married Joe Dean Williams of Hampton, South Carolina. He passed away in 1972. This marriage produced five children—Christopher (Jacqueline, who predeceased), Joseph (Kim), Damress, Gregory (Pamela) and Samuel (Christina); 21 grandchildren; Ashley Williams, Brandon, Michael, Chris Ann, Nicole, Jocelyn, Brooke, Kyle, Sydney, Matthew, Marcelios, Stanley, Javon, Shallynn, Christopher, and step daughters Seleama, Cedricka, Margaret, and step-sons William and Marcus, 41 great-grandchildren, and 32 great-great-grandchildren, along with many nephews and nieces.

She is survived by three sisters, Francine Keith, Franker Wright (Grover), and Elease Garvin (John predeceased), and two brothers, Edgar (Donel) and Lester. Shirley is predeceased by her sister Christine Ruth (Russell predeceased), and brother Willie Henry (predeceased) (Denise)—Brother-in-laws Allen Williams of South Carolina and Thomas Williams of South Carolina.

As a widow, she raised five children and multiple foster children. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Work from Elmira College ('76). During that time, she worked as a laborer at Trayer Products in Elmira, New York, and later served as a social work counselor at Chemung ARC in Elmira. Shirley was a dedicated community servant, contributing more than 50 years through both volunteer work and paid service. As the first Black woman and twice-elected legislator to the Elmira City Council's 2nd District, she influenced policies that shaped her city's present and future. As a member of Queen City Temple #174 Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks (B.P.O.E.) Daughter Ruler, Eastern Star Worth Matron, Elmira Zoning Board Commission, Dewittsburg Housing Board of Directors, Elmira Housing Commission, and a member of the Economic Opportunity Program (EOP) Board of Directors, she exemplified the qualities of a true community leader—charity, compassion, and outstanding citizenship. She used her time wisely and made a positive difference in people's lives.

For over 20 years, she has led culinary and distribution efforts for EOP's Martin Luther King dinners, consistently serving community members, including offering free delivery to the elderly and disabled. As a member of Monumental Baptist Church, she is recognized as the church's mother, organizing efforts to feed the homeless and making a meaningful, lasting impact on many lives.

She enjoyed spending time with all her family. She loved gardening, baking her famous peach cobbler, pound cake, and cooking her favorite collards and cabbage, which she often brought to families during times of bereavement. She was a fitness junkie participating in aerobics, bowling, kickboxing, and weightlifting. As an avid traveler, she visited Europe, China, and Japan. She loved to dress in her favorite colors: green and purple.

Family and friends are invited to her funeral service at 10:45 am on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at Monumental Baptist Church, 1009 Maple Ave, Elmira, NY 14904.Committal prayers and interment will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery.

Repass will be held at Monumental Baptist Church from 3:30 pm to 6:00 pm.

Shirley found comfort and community at Monumental Baptist Church, where she served as the Church Mother and was a dedicated, long-time member.

Her family would like to thank all healthcare providers. Their loving care for her was inspirational.

She lived by the creed "Now, however, these three remain: faith, hope, love, but the greatest of these is LOVE.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Arctic League, 249 West Clinton St., Elmira, NY 14901. Tele: (607) 733-4576: E-mail: info@articleague.com