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Jean Williams Obituary
86 of Topeka, Kansas, passed away on July 23, 2011. Survived by daughter Nina Robinson, grandchildren Lawrence and Nyla Robinson, and great-grandchildren Israel Kinds and Alex Robinson. Visitation will be held from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, services at 1:00PM, Saturday, July 30, 2011 at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, 100 W. Roosevelt Street, Phoenix, AZ 85003. Interment will follow at Greenwood Memory Lawn Cemetery. Services entrusted to Universal Memorial Center/South Mountain Mortuary.
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Memories and Condolences
for Jean Williams
August 5, 2011
I had worked with Judge Williams back in mid 90's and what stories she had about her life and her stories she would tell of her Civil rights movement with Dr Martin Luther King. She was a sharp dreser and always smelled nice and was a proud woman.. We will miss you Judge..
Victor G Medina
Tamara Primera
August 3, 2011
In attending Judge Jean's funeral, I was reminded of how inclusive she was of everyone. She never discriminated based on race, sex, sexual orientation or anything else. Her funeral was attended by people of every kind, sex, age and race. It was the most diverse one I have ever attended or probably ever will. My life has been enriched by knowing her and if there is an after life then I know that she will be waiting there to enrich that as well. Kevin said it so well ... I will miss you my friend!
Mike Scanlan
August 3, 2011
I first appeared before Judge Williams in May of 1984. She immediately impressed me as a person of quality. She carried herself with great dignity, yet was very warm and personable. Over the many years I knew her, she only became more so. She brought out the best in people just by how she conducted herself. I was very lucky to have met her. It was my opportunity to learn from a really terrific person and great lawyer and jurist how to be a gentleman. I'll never forget her.
Channel Powe
July 31, 2011
I attended your services yesterday and was in awe of the many lives you touched. Thank you Ms. Jean for doing what's right, standing up for what you believe in and bringing change to Arizona. You are indeed a trailblazer. We stand on your shoulders. I'm proud to see your grandson, Lawrence (Larry) walking in your footsteps. I'm convinced that your legacy lives in me. I am encouraged & inspired by your actions. Thank you again for your service in the community and may you rest in paridise.
Barbara Sherman
July 30, 2011
I had the honor of working with Judge Wiliams on several projects and committees. I was in awe of her knowledge and grace. I learned a lot from just being around her and listening to her. A true icon. She will be missed.
July 30, 2011
I was assigned to her ciry court room. One day while on the stand I called her sister. Gudge Williams rose from her seat and said on the stand I am Judge Williams, off the bench call me sister. I will miss Judge Williams.
Motor Officer Pee Wee Whitfield
Cleo Lewis
July 29, 2011
I always remembering Judge Williams telling me because I was from Kansas and Tucson like her I didn't have a edge in her courtroom. Well I did have a edge, I got her smile and a part of heaven every time I was blessed to be in her presence. Her character is one that can show the angels dignity and grace.
Brenda/Don fillmore
July 29, 2011
Seldom in this life do we get to meet someone who really made a mark and whose life really made a differance. She was an insperation to all she knew. You never saw her but what her arms were full of things for the kids here at St.Marys.And if she wasent just finshing a project to help someone she was just starting one.Today we lost a true humanateran.I was proud to have been her friend,. So gods speed untill we meet again. Brenda and Don Fillmore St. Marys
Pat Bell
July 29, 2011
I met Judge Williams many years ago when several members from St. Mary's Episcopal Church were visiting St. Paul's Episcopal Church. I enjoyed her company and I always enjoyed our conversations. She always had a special place in her heart for the children. One Sunday, Jean stood up in church and asked the congregation to please bring in school supplies to help our Sunday school students. The following Sunday there were so many supplies that it brought tears to her eyes. Jean had a way of getting things done. I thank Jean for her kindness and her friendship. May she rest in peace.
Sgt. Dave Lane (PPD Ret.)
July 29, 2011
Judge Williams was an inspiration to all people she met. She loved life and always had a smile and something nice to say about everyone. I am proud and very fortunate to have known and worked with her for more than 30 years. She was a woman of wisdom and good old fashon common sense. She was my good friend and someone I always respected, I will miss her greatly.
Lynn Boddy
July 29, 2011
Judge Jean was a member of St. Mary's Episcopal Church for many years. She was very generous with her time and giving. I have been in charge of Sunday School for many years and Jean was always bringing supplies and things our students needed. Many of our students are African refugees. Thank you Jean for all your help and support.
Thom Terranova
July 29, 2011
Judge Jean - Our friendship, though short, is something I will treasure forever. You always gave of yourself and never asked for anything in return. I learned so many life lessons taught in that unique Judge Jean style (With love and a look). This "Heathan" will carry these lessons always. Thank you for your love and friendship - Thom
Candace Green
July 29, 2011
Ms. Jean, you were one of our lights that lead the way for a better place. You are now with your sister Opal Ellis, who loved you too. Thank you for the memories. ALL of you can began your work from heaven. The dream team is back together again. Mr Ragsdale, Rev. Brooks, Mr. Berry, Ms. Ellis and Ms Williams. We miss you. Tell my mother hello. We did over come, thanks to you guys. We will continue the fight. Please continue to light your candles for us. LOVE YOU.... Candace
Tommie Taylor
July 29, 2011
Judge Jean Williams was certainly a remarkable woman. She really knew how to live. I thank God for her willingness to get involved in making history, first as Martin Luther King, Jr.'s Chicago attorney, second as the first Afro American woman municipal judge in Tucson and Phoenix, Arizona, and third as one of the movers and shakers who helped get the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday passed here in Arizona. Only a woman with as large a personality as the Judge's could leave this kind of legacy. She was fun, too and gave good advice to you if you needed it.
God bless your spirit Judge Williams. You are with Him now. God bless and keep your family and family friends.
Glen Gardner
July 29, 2011
To the family and friends of Judge Williams we offer our prayers and hope that the lord may comfort you in your time of need. May she rest in peace knowing how she touched so many.
Carmen Boyd
July 29, 2011
Judge Williams, what an amazing woman!! I had the honor of working with her as an Interpreter. She demanded respect. I admired her for that!! May she rest in peace.
July 29, 2011
Judge Jean Williams will be remembered for her "spirited" speaking engagements during Martin Luther King, Jr. celebrations and activities at Martin Luther King, Jr. Elementary School. She always ended her participation by leading the audience in lighting candles and singing "This Little Light of Mine."
Laura Brooks
Roosevelt School District
Martin Luther King, Jr Elementary School Teacher
South Phoenix
Bob Ortiz (Phoenix PD Retired
July 29, 2011
I had the privilege and honor of testifying on numerous occasions in Judge Williams court. She was a fair and compassionate judge who treated people in her court with dignity and respect. She will be missed by many but not forgotten. She joins the ranks of other City of Phoenix judges who have recently passed and are now in heaven. Rest in Peace Judge Williams.
Kevin Robinson
July 29, 2011
May God Bless a truly one-of-a-kind person. She meant so much to so many people in so many ways. We are in a better world because she was in our lives.
I will miss you my friend.
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