Rowena O'Bryant Williams

Rowena O'Bryant Williams was born on December 8, 1944, to Benjamin O'Bryant and Kathryn Lemon-Green O'Bryant. Affectionately known to countless friends and family as Wendy, she brought a radiant spirit into the world. A proud native of Newark, New Jersey, her roots ran deep in the vibrant community that shaped her early years. She attended Miller Street Elementary School and South Side (Shabazz) High School. In 1962, her life entered a new chapter when she united in marriage with William H. Williams, and from this union two daughters were born.
Professionally, Rowena was a true trailblazer. She carved an indelible path at Haynes & Co., where her determination and talent shone brightly as she became the company's first African American sales employee. This pioneering achievement not only reflected her exceptional capabilities but also opened doors and inspired many who followed. Her distinguished career-marked by resilience, excellence, and unwavering work ethic-spanned many dedicated years and culminated in her role at the iconic Tetley Tea Company, where she contributed her expertise until her well-earned retirement.
Rowena lived a remarkably vibrant life. She delighted in dancing, competitive pool, and racing, and her magnetic charm fostered friendships with ease. She devoted cherished time to her great-grandsons, Basheer and Saajii Saleem, sharing lessons, laughter, and sports. Her generosity knew no bounds-she faithfully celebrated every family birthday, ensuring each loved one felt remembered and valued.
Rowena was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved uncle William O'Bryant and son-in-law, Holy Apostle Deen M.M.R. Saleem.
She leaves to cherish her memory her devoted daughters, Serena Williams and Rabia Saleem (Latricia Williams).
She is also survived by her grandchildren through her daughter Serena: Duanaya Elmore, Aneres Moore, Onje Moore, Athanasia Moore, and Atasha Moore; her grandson-in-law, William Elmore; and 11 great-grandchildren.
Also surviving her through her daughter Rabia, the Saleem family, are grandchildren: Sulaimaan, Jihad, Maryam, Taqiyyah, Fakhrud-Deen, Yad'Ullah, Qurra-tul-ayn, Sajjaad'Ullah, Imaanah, Muhammad, Taahirah, 'Aai'shah, Alifa, Khaaif, and Abdul-Majid; grandsons-in-law Sandro, Dashaun, and Kareem; granddaughters-in-law Mubaarika, Yuhanna, and Nancy; and 14 great-grandchildren.
Rowena is also survived by her first cousins Marie, John, Tasha, Dr. Ken O'Bryant, Anita, Johnny, and James Green, along with a host of loving friends whose lives she touched deeply.
This Online Memorial has been created to commemorate the life of Rowena O'Bryant Williams. Leave a message on the Tribute Wall to share your favorite memories and offer words of sympathy and comfort.