LORETTA JANICE WILLIAMS

I was an undergraduate student of Loretta Williams at Mizzou, maybe 1976 or 1977. I later did an independent study of the organizer Saul Alinsky with her. It is too long ago to recall specifics, but I can picture her lecturing, still feel the same admiration and affection I had for her, still know the acceptance she extended to me as a maturing learner, and I can say she was the standout teacher of my four years in Columbia. Periodically I would Google her as I did today. In ways my...

I've been remembering Loretta recently. I also worked at the UUA in Boston, during Loretta's time as the Director of the Social Responsibility office. I was one of the youth staff, and most of the adults were not very kind or helpful to us during that time. Loretta was an exception. She made me feel welcome and valued. She made me feel my work mattered. She brought me to one of my first protest marches. She was a mentor and role model to me, and my life would not be the same without her. I'm...

I met Loretta some years back through a mutual close friend we share, Larry Watson. Over the years, we grew close. She was an important part of my career path since she was involved in the organization and editing of my dissertation. I smile as I think of the heated discussions we had over how I was proceeding and what I needed to do to complete my work on time. I always brought her flowers and loved seeing her smile through her stoicism.
I think the last time we were together was for...

We knew, loved and respected Loretta. Met her when she worked for the UUA. A truley remarkable woman. Rev. Larry and Nancy Hutchison

I was saddened to learn of Loretta's death.
Betty Jo Middleton

Loretta was the first UUA staff person I met at my first General Assembly in Vancouver BC in 1983, She became my mentor and friend and inspired me in my work for racial and economic justice. You are close to my heart and will remain so as long as I live.
Rev, Dr. Dorothy Emerson

I worked with Loretta on a number of projects when she worked for the Unitarian Universalist Association. She was a remarkable woman. I am sorry that at this point in history we are losing such an advocate for justice.

I am greatly saddened by Loretta's passing, and I extend my condolences and sympathy to her families.

Loretta and I were good friends for a long time. We met in the early 80s, when she was doing outreach for the Unitarian Universalist Association. I was an activist in support of Eritrea's liberation struggle--my home country. Loretta set up an interview--and our friendship was launched.

I was drawn to Loretta's tenacious commitment to social justice, including her struggles...