Martha L Williams

Martha Luella Williams was born on December 15, 1930, to the late Vergian and Jodie Wise of Lithonia, Georgia. She was the youngest and last surviving child of six siblings. On January 4, 2025, she peacefully transitioned, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and community that will continue to inspire all who knew her. Martha spent her early years on Evans Mill Road in Lithonia before moving to Flat Rock Road. From humble beginnings, she worked in the cotton fields and helped care for her siblings. At the age of 21, she married and moved to Conyers, Georgia. In 1959, she remarried and relocated to Ellenwood, Georgia, where she raised four of her six children. Martha worked at the Army & Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) Distribution Center, retiring after 15 years of dedicated service. She was a pillar of her community and a role model of resilience and grace. A devoted member of Flat Rock United Methodist Church, Martha attended Bruce Street Elementary during her childhood. In the 1940s, educational opportunities for Black children were limited, and high school was not an option. However, in a triumphant moment 63 years later, Martha received her high school diploma during a special ceremony at the Flat Rock Archives Black History Program—a testament to her determination and pride in her heritage. Known for her unshakable faith, Martha was a “strong tower” who lived by the Word of God. Each morning, before stepping out of bed, she boldly proclaimed, “This is the day the Lord has made; I shall rejoice and be glad in it.” Her days were filled with prayer and thanksgiving, embodying a deep and unwavering trust in God. Martha was a woman of many talents. She had a passion for gardening and took great joy in planting vibrant vegetable gardens that were admired by neighbors and visitors alike. Her elegance and impeccable style earned her the title “Grand Diva,” and her radiant personality led many to lovingly call her “Ms. Sweet.” Martha’s driveway and home were sanctuaries of warmth, laughter, and love, welcoming all who entered. Her greatest gift, however, was her unconditional love. Whether with family, friends, or strangers, Martha poured out love in abundance, leaving an indelible mark on everyone she encountered. She was preceded in death by her husband, Nathaniel Williams, and children, Michael Williams, Joyce S. Williams, Audrey R. Williams, and Derrick L. Williams. Martha’s legacy will be cherished by her children, Gayle Wise Meadows (Cecil Meadows, Sr.), Deacon Garrett Hall, Sr. (Ann Hall), Ricky Williams, Daphne Goodman (Michael Goodman), Michelle Bacon (Lawrence Bacon), Monica Williams (granddaughter), and Nathan Williams (grandson), along with her son-in-love, Jeffery Williams, and daughter-in-love, Karan Lawyer. She was also preceded in death by her children, Audrey R. Williams and Derrick L. Williams, whose memories she treasured deeply throughout her life. She is also survived by 12 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, five great-great-grandchildren, and a host of other relatives and friends. Martha Luella Williams will forever remain in our hearts as a woman of faith, love, and grace. Her extraordinary life serves as a beacon of light and a reminder of the power of prayer, resilience, and unconditional love. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Tributes

Martha L Williams

December 15, 1930 - January 4, 2025