Lori Anna Williams

Lori Anna Harsin Williams passed away July 19, 2017, at Lodi Memorial Hospital, from complications of liver disease. Born September 27, 1951, in Wallace, Idaho, Lori was a light hearted and compassionate daughter, wife, mother and grandmother with a love for her family, music and animals. Born in Idaho and raised in Montana, Lori’s elementary, secondary and collegiate education was completed in Montana before she moved to Hawaii to care for her father, Allen. However, Lori soon exchanged her Hawaii address for California as Allen insisted she live her own life stating, “I lived 30 years before you were even born, so I can certainly take care of myself 20 years after you were born.” She heeded Al’s advice and moved to California where she met and married Tony Ford, father of her daughter, Darcy, born in 1975. In California, Lori began her distinguished career of public service. Lori's career spanned 30+ years in several departments and various capacities. She worked for the Crippled Childrens’ Services in San Jose as a crisis specialist and performed administrative work for Santa Clara County. After moving to Stockton in the late 80s, Lori worked for St. Joseph’s Hospital and the Stockton Police Department before ending her career as a financial analyst with the City of Stockton. It was at work where she met the love of her life, Glasco Williams Jr.. He moved with her to Stockton, and they eventually married after a long domestic partnership. In April 2005, Lori became grandmother to Coltrane James, son of Darcy and her husband, Bill James. Her “little family,” as she called them, was the light of her life and Lori soon realized a special bond with her grandson, who called her “Lola.” Lori retired in 2008, at the age of 57, intent to enjoy her life by traveling and spending time with her grandson, Coltrane, in Texas. Fortunately, Lori’s “little family” moved back to California in 2015 for her final years. Lori, a life-long musician, once said that Hell must be a place without music. Thus, Lori nurtured the love of music in her daughter, Darcy, and grandson, Coltrane. As a youth, Lori played piano and guitar by ear and absorbed her father Al Harsin's widely admired stride-piano method. Having also learned traditional piano later in life, Lori could accompany her violinist daughter, Darcy, or other musicians in either stride or traditional styles with ease. With her comic wit and ability to sing and harmonize, Lori’s performances of her original songs were a delight to family and friends.

In addition to music, Lori was also a passionate animal owner and advocate. Lori rescued countless birds and stray dogs and vowed never to turn away a dog in need. She faithfully and lovingly cared for her many pets and was concerned for their continued care even in her last weeks. Not only did she take in animals in need, but she took in many friends and family members who needed a place to stay for various reasons. She was always generous with anything she had; willing to give whatever necessary to help any person or creature in need. Lori is survived by her husband Glasco Williams, daughter Darcy Ford-James and family; sisters Kay Albert and Pat Cromwell; Aunt Leila Harsin Svendsen.; many Harsin cousins; five stepbrothers Martie, Leonard, Chris, Ray and Jeff, stepsister Julie Wagness, and stepmother Ella Harsin. Lori was preceded in death by her beloved father Allen Lewis Harsin, who we believe was waiting at Heaven’s Gate with outstretched arms. Lori believed that life doesn't end at death and her family seeks comfort in the notion that Lori has joined her precious Dad. Lori leaves us all thankful to have known and loved her. Her gifts of kindness, nurturing, wit and musical ability will be missed but fondly remembered. A private Celebration of Life will be held on August 26, 2017.