Kathleen O'Neill Williams

Kathleen O’Neill Williams, 74, of Indianapolis, departed this life at home on Sunday, February 26, 2023. Kathy was born July 21, 1948 in Berwyn, Illinois to the late Edwin K. and Mary R. (O’Neill) Williams. She grew up and attended schools in Indiana and never stopped enriching her education. During her lifetime, she had earned many degrees from prestigious institutions with a focus on social services, public health and nursing. Kathy lived to help those in need. Kathy earned her original undergrad from Indiana University, and then earned her degree as Nurse Practitioner Degree and PhD from James Madison University. She was a PhD., a University Professor, a Nurse Practitioner, a Social Worker and mentor to many. She had taught at Kent State University, and was very proud of being on the faculty of Virginia Tech Carilion Medical School as a mentor and facilitator. Kathy had a true interest and appreciation of others and their stories. She loved to experience our natural world and new cultures. She was an advocate for the less fortunate and never passed on an opportunity to celebrate the little things in life. As a Certified Naturalist, she loved to kayak, hike, sailboard, sailing boat, and fishing; often with a dog by her side. She loved dogs and had trained search & rescues and cadaver dogs with Virginia Canine Rescue Team including her own, Chip, Izzy & Newton. Her favorite indoor activities and interests included cooking, baking, painting in water colors and playing her banjo. She was a kind, gentle and patient soul who will be fondly remembered by all who knew her. Kathy was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Melissa Wiles. She is survived by her dedicated siblings, Kenneth (Diane James) Williams, Peggy (Paul) Gresk, Mary Anne (Brian) Tracy and Edwin (Holly) Williams Jr.; her devoted dog Newton as well as a host of nieces, nephews and grateful students and colleagues over the years. Memorial visitation for Kathy will begin at 4:00 pm on Thursday, March 2nd at Leppert Mortuary Nora Chapel and conclude at time of services at 6:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested in her name to the Mid-Atlantic Springer Spaniel Rescue. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.leppertmortuarynora.com for the Williams family.