Emma Kelly Williams

Emma Lee Kelly Williams, born July 28, 1928, in Baker, Louisiana, was the cherished only child of Effie Freeman Williams and Oscar Kelly Jr. Affectionately called "Sweetie," she was known for her adventurous spirit, preferring to climb trees and chase chickens over playing with dolls. Emma Lee accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized at Shady Grove Baptist Church.
She graduated from Southern University Lab High School. She married George Williams on June 9, 1947, at Shady Grove. Together, they raised six children and faithfully served the Lord, first at Shady Grove Baptist Church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana and later at First Mount Olive and Greater Macedonia Baptist Churches in Houston. Their marriage of 62 years was a model of love and devotion until George's passing in 2009.
Emma Lee's quiet faith, strength, and wisdom extended far beyond her family. She was a loving mother, grandmother, and friend, known for her impeccable home, keen wit, and sage advice. Though she didn't often speak her prayers aloud, her unwavering faith was evident to all who knew her. She was affectionately called "The Real Madea" by her caregivers, known for her humor and ability to keep those around her laughing, especially in her later years.
On Thursday, September 4, 2025, Emma Lee transitioned peacefully into the presence of the Lord, surrounded by two of her children, Mona and Gerald, at her bedside. She is now reunited in heaven with her beloved husband, George L. Williams; their son, Otis Dewitt Williams; her mother, Effie Freeman Williams; her father, Oscar Kelly Jr.; her brothers, Alfred Guerin and Jimmy Kelly; her great-grandson, Deangelo Johnson; and her son-in-law, Bernard Haynes Jr. She leaves behind a remarkable legacy of love and faith, carried on by her loving children: George Michael Williams, Gerald Wayne Williams, Mona Faye Haynes, Gregory Lee Williams (Tanger), Crayton Raynard Williams (Rosalind); her brother, Leroy King; her beloved adopted son, Carlos A. Delgado Diaz; fifteen grandchildren; twenty-two great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.
Her life, guided by Proverbs 31, was a testament to love, faith, and wisdom. As 2 Timothy 4:7 reminds us: "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Emma, please visit our Tree Store.