JoAnn Williams

JoAnn Williams, affectionately known as "MeMe", stepped into the presence of the Lord on May 2nd, 2026 at 1:12 am. 

She is preceded in death by her parents, W. W. Mitchell, and Lillian Frances Shane; three siblings, Frankie Tyler, Phil Mitchell and Gladys Gillespie. She is survived by her two children, Tammy Dodson (Gene) and Gary Williams (Connie); five grandchildren, Jackie Abram (Aaron), Gerad Williams, Christopher Williams (Channing), Ben Dodson (Emily) and Tiffany Williams (Blake). Her eight great-grandchildren include AJ Abram, Sydney Abram, Brady Abram, Chase Neice, Addyson Williams, Aniyah, Nixon and Miles Bertolino. 

JoAnn lived a full life devoted to her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She was a loving and devoted wife to her husband Woody Williams, who preceded her in death in 2012. Together they spent many years in vocational ministry as worship leaders and were instrumental in helping plant a church in Columbia, Missouri. 

Her greatest gift was her love for people. She was a wonderful mother and the best "MeMe" anyone could ask for. Her children, grandchildren, and "great-grands," as she lovingly called them, adored her. She mentored many young women in the faith. 

Her favorite job was teaching kindergarten in a Christian School in Topeka in the 80’s. She retold so many funny stories of her sweet students for several decades. Her career path also included working for Scholastic Book Fairs, where she received multiple awards and recognitions for her achievements. 

She was a faithful member of Glenville Church for many decades, where she built many close friendships and served wherever needed. She never missed an opportunity to point others to Christ. She often shared her powerful testimony of God transforming her life on March 12, 1966, when she and Woody invited Christ into their lives during a time of struggle, creating a generational legacy. On that day, the Lord saved not only her but also restored their marriage, and she remained steadfast in her faith from that moment forward.

A Celebration of Life Service is planned for 2 pm, Friday, May 8, at Glenville Church, 4604 S. Seneca St. A memorial has been established with Glenville Church. Share condolences at www.cozine.com. Services by Cozine Memorial Group-Cozine Life Events Center.