On 27 January 2012, Viola Vi Williams died. Fertile, Minnesota, was her birthplace, and she was the eighth of eight children. She was born on July 27, 1924. Before graduating from high school, my mother attended a one-room public school.
Vocalist Viola Williams
On November 16, 1945, Vi married Hal Williams and relocated to Richland, WA in 1948. In 1986, Hal died after a heart attack.
Family
Orris Otheim, a beloved member of our family whom Mom met through Sons of Norway, was an important part of her life. A long-time member of Richland Lutheran Church, she joined Kennewick First Lutheran Church in the last two years. She had a large circle of close friends, many of whom she treasured and adored.
Son Steve Jeri Williams
In addition to her son Steve Jeri Williams, Sherrie Lennox Darrell Jobin, and daughter Sherrie Williams Lennox, Vi is survived by six grandchildren: Jason Lennox Erika Donaldson, Mike Mara Lennox, Chris April Lennox, Jabez Patti-Ann Williams, and Matthew Williams Williams. Chris Murdock, Tara Murdock, and John Jobin are the stepchildren of Becky Grove and Adam Williams. Kearney Williams, Guy Murdock, and Soren Lennox, her great-grandsons, survive her, as does Emma, her first great-granddaughter, who will be due in February. She leaves behind two sisters-in-law and a large family of nieces and nephews.
Memorial Ceremony
On Friday, February 3, 2012, at 1:00 p.m., a memorial ceremony will be held at the Kennewick First Lutheran Church, located at Highway 395 and Yelm in Kennewick, Washington.
Donations to the Lourdes Foundation for Behavioral Services, 520 North 4th Ave., Pasco, WA 99301, in place of flowers are welcome.
Everyone adored our mother. If she could feel the outpouring of support for her as well as our family during this trying time, she’d be very touched.
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Last Words
Please know that my family and I are thinking of you and your loved ones at this difficult time. Despite the fact that I haven’t seen Aunt Vi in a long time, I have many happy memories of her and Uncle Hal from my youth. When we visited Washington, DC, with our family, she always welcomed us into her home and made us feel at home. I’m sure she’ll be missed. Please know that you have our full support.
