Marilyn Ann Williams' Obituary
On Sunday, April 12, at home and surrounded by family, our dearest “Mare,” Marilyn Powell Williams, entered into eternal life joining her beloved husband, John A. Williams. Born in Independence, Kansas, to J. Wilson Powell and Katie (Coleman) Powell, Marilyn was raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma. She had a wonderful childhood there, growing up in a family that shared much love and laughter. Marilyn graduated from Will Rogers High School and attended Oklahoma A&M where she majored in psychology. Her college years blessed her with wonderful experiences and many lifelong friendships. Involved in numerous activities, Marilyn served as president of Alpha Delta Pi sorority and enjoyed writing a Sunday social column for the Tulsa World. It was also here that Marilyn met the love of her life. John and Marilyn were married for 56 marvelous years and raised two beautiful children, John and Tracey. Later Marilyn completed her bachelor’s degree at North Texas State University. Her studies there prepared her to be the DISD peer tutoring coordinator throughout the mid-1970s. Marilyn was a lifelong Episcopalian. Her church family was always a precious part of her life. Members of St. Luke’s for many years, Marilyn was a founder of Grand Dames; she was active in the Plaid Door, and with John, she chaired the Greeters’ group. They moved to the Church of the Incarnation in the mid-1990s. Here she served on the Altar Guild, was a member of Daughters of the King, and cherished the fellowship of the “Next Group.” Music was always an important part of her life. Marilyn loved to sing and had a beautiful voice. Her musical talents were not limited to singing, however. She played the string bass in the school jazz band, and the piano provided her with lifelong enjoyment. On her Steinway, her favorites included “Night and Day” and numerous ragtime tunes. Later in her life, she took up the mountain dulcimer, sharing her talent by performing at Walnut Place. Avid travelers, Marilyn and John explored the world. They particularly enjoyed adventures in Europe, Central America, and the Middle East. Wales held a special place in their hearts, as it was the home of their ancestors. Vibrant, warm and caring, Marilyn was drawn to people and they to her. She embraced a family of special friends including the Paper Empire Investment Club, the Bent Tree Literary Club, and the “Bookies” book club, which met monthly for 45 years. Marilyn was preceded in death by her husband, John A. Williams; parents J. Wilson Powell and Katie Powell, sister Patsy Powell, brother Jack Powell and wife Wilma Powell, and sister-in-law Jerry Williams. Marilyn is survived by her son Dr. John Williams, Sr., and wife Chaundra Williams of Colorado Springs, CO; daughter Tracey Williams and husband Steve Ellett of Plano, TX; grandson John Michael Williams, Jr., and wife Dr. Jamie Carlyle Williams of Rochester, MN; granddaughter Dr. Ariana Hoffman and husband Brian Hoffman of Minneapolis, MN; granddaughter Alyssa Williams and special friend John Coleman of Minneapolis, MN; sister Peggy Bains and husband L.D. Bains of Tulsa, OK; brother-in-law Joe Williams of Helena, MT; brother-in-law Bill Williams and wife Jane Williams of Edmond, OK; and many beloved nieces and nephews. Marilyn loved her family, both immediate and extended, dearly. She offered support and encouragement always, and she will be greatly missed. Marilyn lived life to the fullest, and on Sunday her bucket list was empty as she had done everything she wanted during her lifetime. One of her favorite sayings was “Life is a gift; celebrate it every day.” She did just that, and we will strive to do the same until the time we are all reunited in the loving arms of our Savior. A memorial service will be held at the Church of the Incarnation, 3966 McKinney Avenue, Dallas, TX 75204 on Monday, April 20, 2015, at 11:00 a.m. The Reverend Harry Hill will officiate. Interment will be at a later date at Memorial Park Cemetery in Tulsa, OK. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Salvation Army, Wounded Warrior Project, the Church of the Incarnation or a charity of your choice.
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