Mary Frances Williams

Obituary For Mary Frances Williams

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Sister Mary Frances Williams.

Sis. Mary Frances Williams entered eternal rest on Wednesday, December 3, 2025. God, in His infinite mercy, came and granted her peace.

Born on March 12, 1934, in Tallahassee, Florida, Sis. Mary was the beloved daughter of the late Henrietta Thurman and the late Mos Gilliam. She began her early education in the Leon County school system and later attended Florida A&M University High School. Gifted with a passion for beauty and service, Sis. Mary became a licensed cosmetologist and provided treasured beauty services to her local community. Her professional life also included many dedicated years in the retail industry, most notably at Nic’s Toggery and Kmart. After retirement, she continued her life of service through Eldercare, offering hospice and companion support to families across the community.

A devout Christian, Sis. Mary was a faithful lifelong member of Allen Temple CME Church in Tallahassee, where she accepted Christ early in life. Over the years, she served her church with unwavering devotion: President of the Senior Choir, Missionary Secretary, participant in numerous ministries, and attendee of district and annual CME conferences. Blessed with a beautiful singing voice, Sis. Mary shared her gift joyfully as a lead vocalist in several choirs, uplifting worship and touching countless hearts.

Sis. Mary leaves to cherish her memory four children, Leonard N. Barnes, Sr., Deborah Montgomery (Victor), Jerry L. Williams (Elnora) and Carmelita Williams; She is also survived by 15 grandchildren, Lenard Barnes Jr., Jessina Graves, Stacy Williams, Nicole Morgan, Reginald Barnes, Ebony Stirrup, Jovan Williams, Demil Thomas, Maurice Williams, Victoria Montgomery, Naroda Knox, Sr., Monique Davis, LaToya Brown and Zachary Williams; along with 21 great-grandchildren, 3 great-great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Sis. Mary is preceded in death by her parents, siblings, Lewis Wilkerson Sr., Rosetta Thomas, and Mila Robinson; son, Edward “Ed” Williams (Sherylon); daughter-in-law, Ms. Doretha Barnes (Leonard Sr.); and granddaughter, Ms. Stephanie Williams.

Sis. Mary Frances Williams lived a life marked by faith, service, love, and song. Her legacy will continue to shine through the many lives she touched.

Funeral service will be 11:00 A.M. Saturday, December 27, 2025 at Allen Temple C.M.E. Church, with burial at Oakland Cemetery.

On behalf of the staff and management of Strong & Jones Funeral Home, Inc., we would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the family of Sister Mary Frances Williams.