Eleanor Louise Williams was born in Olean, New York, to the late Peter and Geraldine Garnett. She was the eldest of three children.

She graduated from Steelton-Highspire High School in 1960. Afterward, she worked at the New Cumberland Army Depot and then at the Pennsylvania National Insurance Company. Eventually, she became employed by PHEA, from which she later retired. Additionally, she served as a chaplain assistant at UPMC.

She found joy in various activities such as crocheting, crafting, making applesauce, canning, creating baskets, and preparing care packages. An avid bowler, she participated in league competitions regularly. Additionally, she had a passion for drawing, writing poetry, and composing short stories. Gardening was another of her loves, and she was a skilled wordsmith, often providing encouraging words and mentorship to those around her. She cherished her time spent with the Old Lady Gang.

She was united in Holy Matrimony to Brother William Williams, Jr. (June).

She was a faithful and dedicated member of the Mount Calvary Church of God in Christ for over 35 years. Throughout her time there, she served as an usher and was a senior choir member. Additionally, she contributed to her local church by being part of the hospitality auxiliary and the Father’s Day Committee. A true scholar of the Word, she demonstrated her advanced knowledge of biblical texts and writings by sharing what she learned in Sunday School and Bible Band. She served on the State Hospitality Auxiliary and was also a member of the Business and Professional Women.

Eleanor displayed much love and concern for her family, friends, and others. She was sweet, caring, and kind however, she was a no non-sense woman who would “take no tea for the fever”.

She was devoted to her church, her pastor, and her brothers and sisters in Christ.

Eleanor transitioned into eternal life on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, in Philadelphia, PA. In addition to Eleanor’s passing, she was preceded in death by her husband, William Williams, Jr.; her son, Charles W. Dillard; her parents, Peter and Geraldine Garnett and brothers, Richard Garnett and William Garnett.

Her loving family will forever cherish Eleanor’s life and legacy. Her daughters, Tanita Garnett and Michelle Garnett, both of Harrisburg, PA, Tawana (Brian) McCraney of Columbia, S.C., Kenja (Adreece) Taylor of East Stroudsburg, PA; her stepchildren, Mustafa (Perisse) Saludhin and Eric (April) Hitchcock, all from Harrisburg, PA, Stephanie (Aundra) Wood of Fort Washington, MD, Robyn (Trent) Gott of Wilmington, DE, Rodney Wilson of Alabama, Rickey (Toya) Williams of Pittsburgh, PA; her son of the heart, Michael Lester; daughter of the heart, Wilva Smith, both of Harrisburg, PA; her grandchildren, Dujuan, David, Jr., Latisha, Michelle, Shaune’, Joseph, Imad, Tylre, DeVonn-Jaleel, Chance; her grandchildren of the heart, Quinton, Zhireonha (Ziggy); 19 great-grandchildren and 1 great great-grand; one sister of the heart, Carol Robbins; grand-dogs, Precious 1, Precious II Garnett, Logan, Langston & Waverly Taylor.

Eleanor's life will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 5, 2025 in the Sanctuary of her church, Mt. Calvary Church of God in Christ, 1830 N. 5th Street, Harrisburg with viewing and visitation from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. and burial in William Howard Day Cemetery.