Mary Elizabeth Williams' Obituary
Mary Elizabeth Williams
Mary was born on February 27, 1929 to Marion and Laura Welch Mossman in Seattle. She passed away peacefully at home with two of her best friends at her bedside on September 1, 2010.
Mary graduated from Garfield High School in 1946 and entered the University of Washington, graduating in 1950 with a degree in personnel management. While at the UW she was a member of Alpha Phi Sorority and was active in the Association of Women Students and ASUW.
Following her graduation she worked in the UW placement office. One day a young UW grad just out of the Army named Donald R. Williams came in looking for a job. One thing led to another and he got a good position with Dean Witter and she got a husband. They were married in June of 1956. Shortly thereafter, Don was transferred to the Tacoma office and they settled in University Place, which became their lifetime home town.
Mary and Don wasted no time in becoming involved in the greater Tacoma community. Mary displayed leadership qualities and served as president of the Tacoma Orthopedic Association, Lemon's Beach Orthopedic Guild, Nesika Study Club, and YMBC Auxiliary. She was also a member of the Tacoma Garden Club and Fircrest Golf Club where she was an active participant in the Ladies 18 Hole Group. Mary also served as Alumni adviser to the Alpha Phi Chapter at UPS for a number of years. Mary's strong interest in gardening was put to good use as she spent many hours working in the native garden at Point Defiance Park.
Mary was predeceased by her parents and her husband. She is survived by several cousins, two nieces and a nephew. She was able to live at home until her death thanks to her wonderful caregivers: Leilani, Rory, and Dale, who were advised and supported by Karen Allard, RN, of Sound Options. MultiCare Hospice did a fine job in directing care in the last few weeks of her life.
Mary and Don Williams were very generous benefactors to charitable and community service organizations during their lifetimes. They did so with little fanfare or desire for recognition. A foundation in their names will be set up to continue their support well into the future. In lieu of flowers it is suggested that donations be made to hospice or a favorite charity.
A memorial service will be held for Mary on Thursday, September 16 at 11:00 AM in the Aspen Chapel, Mountain View Celebration of Life Center, located at 4100 Steilacoom Blvd. SW, Lakewood, WA. A reception will follow in an adjoining facility.
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