Harriet Ann Williams' Obituary
Harriet A. Williams, 85 was born on August 12, 1934 in Bonham, Texas to Jesse James Dale and Estella Gracie Stewart. She had ten sisters and two brothers; eight siblings who have preceded her in death.
Harriet was a dance performer in which one of her favorite tap routines was to “The Candy Man” by Sammy Davis Jr. While living in San Diego, California Harriet met her husband Nelson Williams where Nelson was stationed in the U.S Navy as a Submariner. Harriet and Nelson knew they were a match and wed on February 19, 1954.
Harriet and Nelson moved to Tacoma, Washington in 1963 where they raised four sons and four daughters.
Harriet was a stay at home wife and was very active in her children’s schools and activities. Harriet wanted to make a difference in her community which compelled her to attend college and complete her AA degree.
Harriet had an unction early in life to help those in need by founding the Family Community Involvement Network. She has been a passionate advocate for families and children in the education system for over thirty years.
Harriet's earlier involvement in the community and professional highlights consisted of serving on the Governor’s State Comprehensive Health Planning Board, First Washington State Representative National Coalition of ESEA Title 1 Parents, Chairperson Title 9 (Tacoma School District) and first Community Intern (Congressman Norm Dick’s Office,) memberships on the executive board of the 27th District. Served as a precinct committee person in that district, Tacoma Media Action Council, Developed the first Parent Training Model for the National Urban League, Established the first Inclusive Diversity Parent Involvement Model for the Tacoma Public School District, Retired, Family Involvement Coordinator Tacoma Public School District, Ambassador for Peace, Universal Peace Federation and Inter-religious International Federation for World Peace, Creator of “Turned On” cable television program, Founder of “Salute to Youth” and “Afro-Pageant” youth scholarship programs, Highly involved in the “Over 40 Review”, Chair, Al Davies Boys and Girls Club Board of Directors, Community Liaison to the United States Department of Education Secretaries Regional Representative. Also, the author of “A Nation of Families, A Nation of Youth.
Harriet is survived by her children; her daughter Toya (Admiral); her daughter Veronica (Bob); her son Samuel (Tina); her daughter Schula; her son Nelson Jr; her daughter Trudy; her son Jesse (Cher); nieces and nephews; a host of grandchildren; great grandchildren; and great-great grandchild. Both Harriet and her husband Nelson, were preceded in death by son Teddy.
Harriet’s passion for her family and her community is echoed in her mantra “Walk the Talk” not only did she advocate for others it was her mission in life. Harriet was an active member of the Church of the Living God, Bishop Lawrence and Audrey White, and loved her church family members.
As the matriarch of her family, Harriet will be missed by her family, community, church members and all that believed in inclusion, rights to exceptional education and harmony among all.
Share your memories of Harriet and condolences to the family by visiting the tribute wall.
To ensure the health and safety of our community, we are following all guidelines set by local, state and CDC officials. Please contact the funeral home with any questions and we encourage friends and families to check back for service updates.
What’s your fondest memory of Harriet?
What’s a lesson you learned from Harriet?
Share a story where Harriet's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Harriet you’ll never forget.
How did Harriet make you smile?
