Lydia Evelyn Williams

WILLIAMS ~ Mrs. Lydia Evelyn McClees Williams was born to John and Estelle McClees in Tampa, Florida November 25, 1915.  She was the only living survivor from this union, as her two brothers and sister preceded her in death.

Mrs. Williams was a graduate of Stanton High School.  She furthered her education by attending Florida Memorial College and Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, where she received her Bachelor’s of Science in Education and her Master’s Degree in Administration and Supervision.  It was during this time that she met the love of her life, Mr. Ira T. Williams, Sr. (deceased).  They fell madly in love, married and from this beautiful union, they had three children, Ira T. Williams, Jr. (deceased), Estelle Watford, and Christopher Williams, Sr.

Mrs. Williams began her career as a life-long educator with Duval County Public Schools with over thirty eight years of dedication and service.  In addition, she was a member of Bethel Baptist Institutional Church, District 8.

Her passions included gardening, reading, cooking, singing and discussing monumental events that the Lord had allowed her to live through.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Mr. Ira T. Williams, Sr. and son, Ira T. Williams, Jr.  She is survived by her only daughter, Estelle Watford, son, Christopher Williams, Sr., and adopted sister, Hattie L. Key (Philadelphia); three grandchildren, Ira T. Williams III, Jerald L. Williams & Christopher Williams, Jr.; 4 great grandchildren; nephew, John Key, Jr.; nieces, Patricia Key Franklin & Darlene Key; many other loving relatives and friends.

Mrs. Williams was graciously and abundantly blessed with longevity, health, prosperity and wisdom.  Her life was a living example of the goodness of God and all his many promises and blessings.  Mrs. Lydia Evelyn McClees Williams will greatly be missed.

Celebration of Life Service for Mrs. Lydia Evelyn McClees Williams will be Tuesday, November 20, 2018 at Bethel Baptist Institution Church, 215 Bethel Baptist Street, Bishop R. W. McKissick, Jr., Senior Pastor; Bishop R. W. McKissick, Sr., Pastor Emeritus.  Visitation MONDAY at The Soutel Chapel from 5 – 7 PM.  Interment in Restlawn Memorial Park.  Because of the love of her family, arrangements entrusted to J. E. Fralin & Sons Funeral & Cremation service, 5065 Soutel Dr., 904.924.9400.

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