Geraldine M. “Jerre” Williams, 89, of Kansas City, passed away peacefully in her sleep on January 11, 2021. Due to keeping people safe from COVID-19, a private service for the family is scheduled for 10:00 a.m., Monday, January 18, 2021 at McGilley State Line Chapel in Kansas City and can be viewed online at www.mcgilleystatelinechapel.com.
Jerre was born on December 10, 1931 in Kansas City, Missouri. Growing up near 31st and Baltimore, Jerre enjoyed her childhood and had lots of adventures with her younger brother Nial, Jr. Graduating in 1948 from Westport High School she went to work for Travelers Insurance. She met her husband of 48 years, Bill Williams, in the mid-1950’s and they shared a lifelong love of travel, music and movies.
Working as a homemaker, Jerre raised three kids, Lynne, Bob, and Greg and led scout troops and was very involved with her kid’s educations and activities. Jerre also worked retail in the 1980’s before retiring in the late 80’s.
During Bill’s working years, Jerre and Bill traveled every year to cities throughout the United States with friends and colleagues for conferences, sightseeing and fun. San Francisco became their favorite city and they traveled there frequently. Upon Bill’s retirement they traveled even more frequently and loved having their adventures.
Jerre lost Bill in March 2004, but continued volunteering for LiteracyKC, and participating in bridge groups and enjoying the company of her many friends and groups.
Jerre was preceded in death by her parents Nial and Dollie Shirley and her husband “Big Bill” Williams.
She is survived by daughter Lynne (Mary Schindler), and sons Bob and Greg (Sylvia). She is also survived by grandchildren Gina, Steven and Hayley and her brother Nial Shirley, Jr.
Also special thanks to the caregivers at Leawood Gardens who are working hard keeping their residents safe and healthy during this pandemic.
