Evelyn Williams

Evelyn G. Williams PORTSMOUTH - In the morning hours of May 31, 2008, Evelyn G. "Auntie" Williams, 78, departed this life in her residence in the 400 block of Phillips Ave. She was born Jan. 9, 1930, to the late Walter Griffin and Pattie B. Griffin. She was educated in Portsmouth Public Schools and later journeyed to New York where she was enrolled in a nursing course at Harlem Hospital in Harlem, N.Y. While a resident in New York, she made her livelihood as a cook, factory worker and nurse. Evelyn was a member of New First Baptist Church Taylorsville and labored diligently in several ministries. She founded the nurses' unit, served as president of the Floral Club, supervised the food ministry and hosted Christmas dinners for seniors as well as coordinating excursions across the country. To cherish fond memory she leaves her daughter, Zelda Williams of New York; adopted daughters, Sonja Mills, Jessica Mills and Esther Mills of Portsmouth; brothers, Darnell Griffin, Bernard D. Griffin Sr. (Alveria) of Portsmouth and Leslie A. Griffin of Fayetteville, N.C.; sister, Mae Breckenridge-Haywood (Fred) of Portsmouth; a host of nieces and nephews; foster daughters, Eugenia Laguerre Bordeaux, Ernestine Benton, Katie Ann Cherry, Latesha Holmes, Zenus Rodgers, Shariyka Greenidge and Latriva Holmes; in-laws and loyal friends. Mrs. Williams was predeceased by her husband, Marshall Williams; brothers, James Griffin, Walter "Booty Green" Griffin, Raymond Griffin; and sister, Bertha Griffin. A wake will be held today from 6 to 7 p.m. at Corprew Funeral Home. A funeral will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday in New First Baptist Church Taylorsville, 2720 Turnpike Road, Portsmouth, with the Rev. James E. Wynn officiating. Burial will be in Olive Branch Cemetery. Family and friends will assemble at 414 Phillips Ave., one hour prior to the service for the procession to the church.