Essie Williams

She moved to Portland, Oregon at the age of 7 attending Chapman Elementary School and graduating from Roosevelt High School. In 1963, Essie married Richard Williams and to this union came three children Alonzo, Robert, and Makeesha.

In 2003, she retired from Nabisco after a long and tenured career as a machine operator where she was admired and loved by her coworkers. Her Nabisco career was especially a treat for her grandchildren who loved when she'd bring home fresh baked cookies.

Essie enjoyed playing cards…both with friends or solitaire, listening to BB King, catching up on the latest news, and faithfully watching the Portland Trail Blazers play, cheering them on win or lose. Her favorite Blazer was Damian Lillard and she always reminded us how Anfernee Simons was "so cute". She especially enjoyed spending quality time with her family, laughing, and cherishing each and every moment.

Essie spoke enthusiastically about all of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, sharing news about all of their accomplishments and success. She was so proud of them and always encouraged them to do their best and have faith in the Lord. She was known for her words of wisdom which derived from her reverence in God. She practiced gratitude even in the most disparaging times with quotes like, "Hey, that's life. You can't get mad over every little thing. Just pray about it and ask God to help you."

Her legacy goes well beyond wisdom though. Essie’s heart went into everything she did; from creating the best turkey & dressin’ in the family to hosting family and friends during the holidays. She was always fashionably dressed and known for her exquisite taste in suits and high heels.

In 2017, Essie was diagnosed with cancer and spent the past few years fighting with the love and support of her family. Her daughter, Makeesha, went to every doctor visit. Her daughter was determined to help her mother fight to live. They fought together. Although it was a tough fight, Essie remained positive, never complained, and had amazing determination. Her faith carried her far beyond the doctor’s

expectations. God had the final say.

We will remember Essie for many things: her loving nature, her kind heart, and her beautiful smile. She molded our hearts to accept that in which we cannot change, feel and learn the actions of love, and there is no better feeling than being around someone that loves you unconditionally. No judgment, no stress, just warmth and love- that was Essie.

She leaves to cherish her memory and forever hold her in their hearts her sister, Bernice Robertson; daughter, Makeesha; grandson, Mervonce; granddaughters, Alexxis, La’Princia, Passion’L, and Dawn; great-grandchildren, Karter, Kolby, and James Jr; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Remember that loving nature we told you about? Hers went far beyond her biological children. She was a foster parent to five additional children who she loved dearly: Monica, Bridget, Tony, Tyrone, and Derrick (who preceded her in death).

Essie is preceded in death by her mother, Ollie Bell Sanders, her father, Lawrence Lewis, her husband, Richard Williams, sons, Alonzo Williams and Robert Williams.