Denice Aldrina Williams

Denise Aldrina Williams, affectionately known as "Mommy," transitioned peacefully at her home on March 9, 2026, in Milton, Florida, surrounded by love. She was 75 years old. Denise was born on March 18, 1950, in New York City, New York, to Mary E. Cook and Lawrence N. Cook. As the eldest of eight siblings, she naturally carried a spirit of leadership,

strength, and care for those around her from an early age.

Throughout her life, Denise had the opportunity to travel and live in several places around the world, including Kansas, Germany, Alabama, and many others. These experiences helped shape her open heart, adventurous spirit, and appreciation for different cultures and people. In 1985, Denise relocated to Milton, Florida, with her children after being introduced to the area by the Hudson family (Mary and Herman). Milton soon became home, and she built a life rooted in family, faith, and community.

After settling in the area, Denise worked for a period of time at Santa Rosa Health and Rehabilitation Center as a Certified Nursing Assistant, where she cared compassionately for others. She later continued her career at the Forestry Blackwater River State Park, where she served as a Fire Prevention Specialist until her retirement.

Denise will always be remembered for her deep personal devotion to the Lord, her love for family, and her vibrant personality. She had a signature style that people instantly recognized long red fingernails, bold red lipstick, beautiful fashion choices, and her unforgettable baby blue Cadillac. She also had an eye for beauty and creativity, expressed through her exotic decorating style and her love for capturing memories through photographs of her travels and family.

She was a woman of many talents and hobbies. Denise loved sewing and often made her own clothing, handcrafting jewelry, crocheting, and doing her own nails. Her creativity, style, and independence were admired by many.

Perhaps what people will remember most is her heart. Denise never met a stranger. Anyone who crossed her path quickly became either a lifelong friend or an honorary member of the family. Her warmth, humor, and openness made people feel seen, welcomed, and loved.

Denise leaves to cherish her memory her three daughters: Patrice Brown, Deseire Williams-Jackson (Ray), and Shanice Sanders (Kevin). She is also remembered by her daughter-in-law, Shawna Odom. Her legacy continues through her eight grandchildren: Larry R. Dixon, Devonne Dixon, Brooklyn Williams, Hassan Williams, Alec Cavazos, Orieon Brown, Bryannah Williams, and Leighton Jackson. She was also blessed with three great-grandchildren: Landon Denson, Bailey Slack, and Navin Slack. Denise is further survived by two siblings, Wanda Cook and Peter Cook, along with two uncles and one aunt: Uncle Ronald Frances, Uncle Arthur Cook, and Aunt Betty Mae Cook, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and lifelong friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Henry D. Williams Sr.; her son, Henry D. Williams Jr.; her father, Dr. Lawrence Nelson; her mother, Mary E. Williams; and her stepfather, Columbus Cary. She was also preceded in death by five siblings: Larry N. Cook, Ramona Washington, Homer O. Cook, Lawrence Cook, and Cynthia Cook. Denise was preceded in death by her maternal grandmother, Modell McCullough; maternal grandfather, Thomas Fredrick; and paternal grandmother, Susan Kimbrough-Cook.

Denise's life reflected authenticity, strength, creativity, and unwavering devotion to the people she loved. She leaves behind a family who will carry forward her lessons, laughter, and love for generations to come.

Though her absence will be deeply felt by all who knew her, the impact she made within her family and community will never fade. Her memory will live on in every act of compassion, every story shared, and every life she touched.

She will be dearly missed, forever remembered, and lovingly carried in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.