Barbara West Williamson

Barbara West Williamson (nee Morton) passed away peacefully at Carol Woods Nursing Home in Chapel Hill on September 24, 2025. She was a cherished mother, sister, grandmother, friend and advocate for all people.

Barbara was born in Norfolk Virginia on June 18,1935 to Jeremiah and Elizabeth Morton. She was the oldest of four girls and loved to travel, read, and connect with new people. She was fluent in Russian and Spanish, and was a beloved ESL teacher to students of all ages. Barbara was passionate about her spirituality and studied at Pendle Hill and Mundelein College. She was a member of the Society of Friends and conscientiously sought out community and different faith networks. She took pleasure in knowing people's stories and often marveled at how beautiful and unusual people's lives could be. People described her as a fierce advocate and ally. Barbara was brave even when she was scared and participated in peaceful protests throughout her lifetime. Her core belief was that all people should be treated with dignity, care, and respect. Even in her dying days, Barbara would ask how she could help and was frequently seen holding signs of support for peaceful demonstrations at Carol Woods.

Barbara is survived by her daughter, Amy, her granddaughter, Penelope, and her sister, Charlotte.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Carol Woods on November 14, 2025, at 2pm. The family invites all who knew her to attend and share their favorite memories of her.

In lieu of flowers, please consider contributing to the following organizations that Barbara supported:

PBS

NPR

National Friends Service Committee