A Christian is characterized by a strong belief and by living a rich and fulfilling life. Bettie Gilbert Williams’ life exemplified all of these characteristics and more. With her passing on April 4, 2018 after a lengthy illness, she turned her face toward the sunrise and quietly sank into rest that knows no waking, except in the presence of God where she will receive her eternal reward.
Bettie Gilbert Williams, known by many as “Bettie Ann,” was born in Fernandina Beach, Fla. to the late Warren Gilbert Sr. and Willie Hemmans Gilbert. She was valedictorian of her graduating class at Peck High School, graduated from Florida Memorial College and earned a master’s degree from the University of North Florida.
She taught for several years in Callahan, Fla. and Fernandina Beach. She was very instrumental in molding the lives of young people. Her slogan throughout life was “get an education which will benefit you and the community and most of all prepare yourself for eternal life – know God for yourself.”
On December 20, 1964, Mrs. Williams was united in holy wedlock to John Henry Williams Sr. and from this union was blessed with two children.
In the community she served as a music educator and participated in Epsilon Mu Lambda Lambda, Eastern Star Lodge No. 195, The Red Hat Society and several other organization and clubs.
She is preceded in death by her mother, Willie H. Gilbert; father, Warren Gilbert Sr.; brothers, Warren Gilbert Jr., William Gilbert and Charles Gilbert.
Left to cherish her memory are a devoted husband of 53 years, John Henry Williams Sr.; children, John Henry Williams Jr. and Valerie Faithe Williams; brother, Wesley John Gilbert; sisters-in-law, Annie Evans (Joe) and Cynthia Gilbert; two dedicated nieces, Emma Brizele and Patricia Russell; and a host of nephews, nieces, and friends.
The viewing of Mrs. Bettie Williams will be held at the First Missionary Baptist Church, 22 S. Ninth St., Fernandina Beach, on Friday, April 13, 2018 from 5to 7 p.m. and on Saturday, April 14, 2018 from 9:30 a.m. until the hour of the service. Her service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 14, 2018 at First Missionary Baptist Church. Interment will be held in the Bosque Bello Cemetery. The cortege will assemble at 10:15 a.m. at 712 S. 10th St.
Huff & Battise Funeral Home