Francine Williams' Obituary
Francine Williams Obituary
Francine Williams, 70, of Oakland, California, passed away on March 5, 2025. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend whose warmth and kindness left a lasting impact. Those whose lives she touched will forever cherish her memory.
Early Life: She was born on February 7, 1955, in Detroit, Michigan, to Pearline and Calvin Berry. The firstborn of seven, she graduated from Fenger High School in Chicago, Illinois.
Marriage and Family: On April 20, 1974, Francine married Dawaye Cannon. They settled in Rockford, Illinois, where they welcomed their beloved son, Gabriel Jullian Cannon. Later in life, Francine found love again with Travis Williams (deceased) and cherished the special bond she formed with his children, Jillean and Travis Williams Jr.
Career and Community Service: In January 2001, Francine began a new chapter in her life when she relocated to Oakland, California, and pursued her passion for communication at Merritt College. She dedicated herself to a life of service, starting her career alongside her family in the employment industry before transitioning to the nonprofit sector with the American Red Cross of the Bay Area through AmeriCorps.
In this role, Francine united churches and community organizations by providing emergency preparedness training and transforming each into a vital hub for community support. For the past decade, she has proudly served on the Board of Directors at Satellite Affordable Housing Associates (SAHA) and volunteered as a passionate advocate for housing rights. Francine’s unwavering dedication, inspiring leadership, and deep commitment to uplifting others have made a lasting impact on her community and everyone who worked with her.
Faith and Legacy: Francine was truly a child of God. As an encourager and dedicated “Prayer Warrior,” she actively served her local church and community in various roles. She found joy and purpose in uplifting others through youth ministries, Bible studies, and prayer groups. Her steadfast faith and immense compassion were a beacon of hope, impacting countless lives and leaving a lasting impression on the spiritual fabric of her community.
Francine was preceded in death by her husband, Travis Williams; her parents, Pearline and Calvin Berry; her brother, Steven Berry; her sister, Joyce Lynn Berry; and nephew, Isaiah Berry.
“The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Deuteronomy 31:8
What’s your fondest memory of Francine?
What’s a lesson you learned from Francine?
Share a story where Francine's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Francine you’ll never forget.
How did Francine make you smile?