Barbara Lee "Cookie" Williams

Barbara "Cookie" Lee Williams
Barbara Lee Williams (Chapin) of Fostoria was born December 14, 1944 to Valmore and Georgianna Chapin. She passed away peacefully on December 23rd, 2025 at home with her family by her side. She married Howard Lee Williams on July 19, 1975, at her parents' home in Fostoria. Their marriage was her anchor, and she was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother whose life was centered on her family.
She is survived by her husband Howard, and her children, David (Mary Dyer) Putman, Christopher (Autumn) Williams, Janice (Andrew) Williams-Harp, and Howard (Sarah) Williams Jr.; her grandchildren, Samantha, David Tanner, Alexander, Brycen, Layla, Orion, and Styx; and great-grandchildren Maxwell and Emma; and her siblings, Valmore (Venita) Chapin, Michael Chapin, and George (Suk Hui) Chapin. She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister-in-law, Cheryl Chapin.
Barbara graduated from Mayville High School in 1962 and devoted her life to her family as a homemaker. She worked as the wine buyer at the Bavarian Inn, where she was recognized for her expansive knowledge of the craft and her genuine enjoyment in sharing it with others.
She and her husband were members of the Spindle Benders Snowmobile Club of Fostoria, and she was an invaluable leader with the Watertown Kids Recreation Program (WKRP). She spent many nights and weekends supporting her children and grandchildren at extracurricular activities. She also enjoyed time at the casino and had an instinctive touch for the games.
In every setting, she carried herself with grace and confidence, her presence marked by a quiet, noble strength. Known for her sharp mind and curiosity, she answered Jeopardy questions with an ease that reflected her intelligence, memory, and love of learning. She held a deep respect for Native American people and culture.
Above all else, Barbara was a devoted mother and grandmother. Her children and grandchildren were the most important people to her, and she built her life around them. She offered practical guidance grounded in love and understanding, holding those she cared for to high expectations while fully supporting them. She gave to others without seeking recognition, and her family knew they were safe, valued, and deeply loved through her actions every day.
Cremation has taken place. Services will be announced at a later date. Arrangements are entrusted to Jansen Family Funeral Home of Columbiaville.