Mrs. Carolyn Johnson Williams

Mrs. Carolyn Johnson Williams was born July 20, 1947, in Jackson, Mississippi to the late Mary Blanche Johnson and Vernon Jones. Carolyn received her early education in the Jackson Public School System and graduated in 1965 from Jim Hill High School. One highlight of her high school tenure was being a band majorette. In her earlier years Carolyn could still twirl a baton just like in high school days. Her other high school highlight was being introduced to the love of her life, Michael L. Williams Sr., by her best friend and neighbor Mary Ruth Haynes. On December 5, 1965, Carolyn married Michael Sr, and to this union three children were born: Michael Jr., Shannan (preceded in death) and Carol "Maria". In 1969, she and Michael moved to Chicago, IL to begin a new life. Carolyn had many aspirations in her new life's journey and loved her family. She took pride in being a homemaker and making sure that the family was her first priority. Carolyn was loving and had a smile that welcomed people into her life. In the neighborhood she was loved like a second-mom to many. Carolyn never met a stranger and any person that visited her home was guaranteed to have a hot home-cooked meal. In 1982 Carolyn ventured into the workforce and was employed at Chicago State University until 1985 when the family returned to Jackson, MS. Upon returning to Jackson, she put her business acumen to use and worked at Unifirst Bank, Mississippi Flavors and ultimately Mississippi State Board of Cosmetology until she retired in 2004. Over the next 20 years, Carolyn would experience health challenges but continued to live her life to its fullest. She took time to travel and visit family; she loved supporting her grandchildren at their sports events. She enjoyed cooking, hosting family gatherings and welcomed all to the table. Carolyn was the ultimate caretaker because she was compassionate and caring. Her infectious laugh would light up a room. Carolyn loved the Lord with all her heart and soul. She was baptized at New Hope Missionary Baptist Church as a child. In later years, she was a practicing Catholic. As she continued her spiritual journey, she returned to New Hope Missionary Baptist Church and was a faithful member until her death. Carolyn loved her church and her Pastor. You could spot Carolyn on any Sunday or church revival in her front row-end seat, singing, clapping, and praising God. Carolyn had a servant's heart. She was a children's Sunday School teacher because she knew the value of instilling God's promises at a young age. She served as the church clerk and on the hospitality committee until her health began to decline. On February 12, 2024, God opened the pearly gates and with out-stretched arms welcomed Carolyn home. She was met by her love: Michael Sr.; daughter: Shannan; parents: Vernon and Mary Blanche; brother: Lawrence "Blue"; sister: Deborah; grandson Deonta; in-laws: Charles and Mary Lou; nephew: Bennie Jr. Carolyn's amazing life will forever be cherished in the lives of her family and friends. She leaves to celebrate her life, her children: Michael L. Williams, Jr. and Carol "Maria" Walker; brothers: Robert Jones, Rick (Glynis) Smith, Dino Jones; sister: Gloria Calloway, Andrea (Jeff) Howell, Cherry Aliu; uncle: John"Uncle Brother" (Loretha) Jones; sisters-in-law: Charlene Cunningham, Lisa Gale Johnson; brothers-in-law: Walter Williams, Charlie Hill Williams; 12 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, bonus daughter: Mary Johnson; bonus son: Angelo.Broadus; life-long friends: Mary Ruth Haynes (70+ yrs) and Norma Jean Lewis (50+ yrs); nieces and nephews that she loved as her own; a host of extended family, church family and friends.

Mrs. Carolyn Johnson Williams

July 20, 1947 - February 12, 2024