Wilma Dean Williams

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Wilma Dean Williams, who departed this world peacefully on December 3rd, 2024 at the remarkable age of 94, surrounded by her beloved family in Westville, Oklahoma.

Born on May 8, 1930, in Chance Oklahoma, Wilma was the cherished daughter of Tillman "Buster" Chance and Lou Ann (Crowder) Chance, in a community lovingly named after her grandfather, Tillman Chance Sr. Her formative years were spent studying at Westville, where she nurtured friendships that would last a lifetime. 

At the tender age of 16, she met the love of her life, Robert Clifton "RC" Williams, whom she married in 1946. The couple briefly ventured to Gary, Indiana, before returning to their roots in the Chance community, where they dedicated their lives to raising five wonderful children.

Wilma wore many hats throughout her life—a devoted wife, nurturing mother, and adoring grandmother. For twenty-three years, she contributed her talents at Franklin Electric in Siloam Springs, Arkansas. Yet, it was within her home that her love truly shined. 

Wilma cherished holidays and family gatherings, where her culinary skills transformed her kitchen into a haven of warmth and delicious aromas. Her turkey and dressing, baked beans, dumplings, rolls, and desserts became staples that drew her loved ones together, trusted recipes that brought joy to every celebration.

A committed member of the Old Baptist Mission Church, Wilma’s faith was a guiding force in her life, connecting her deeply with a community of family and friends who will dearly miss her. 

She leaves behind her five children: Clifton Williams and wife Margie, Ray Williams and wife Sherri, Judy Noblin and husband Everett, Jan McNeely and husband Tom, all of Westville, Oklahoma, and Steven Williams and wife Danielle of Pawnee, Oklahoma. Her legacy continues through her 12 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and 9 great-great-grandchildren, all of whom carry forward her generous spirit.

Wilma was predeceased by her loving husband RC, with whom she shared 55 beautiful years of marriage, as well as her two sisters, Kathleen Hartshorne and Josephine Scism, and brothers-in-law, Byron Hartshorne and James Scism.

Wilma Dean Williams will be remembered not only for her exceptional culinary gifts and devotion to her family but also for her kind heart and her readiness to lend a helping hand to those in need. As we honor her memory, let us celebrate a life well-lived, marked by love, resilience, and an indomitable spirit.