Grace E Williams' Obituary
Grace Earl Williams, 88, a lifelong educator and dedicated community advocate, peacefully transitioned from this life on July 12, 2025, in Richmond, CA. Born and nurtured in Tallahassee, FL's historic Macon Community, Grace attended the Macon School and Old Lincoln High School (Class of 1954) prior to graduating from her beloved alma mater, Florida A & M University, with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (Class of 1958).
After graduating from college, Grace spent many cherished years in California, where she began her family and discovered her natural calling as an educator. For over twenty years she served with distinction as an elementary school teacher in the Oakland Unified School District and demonstrated a deep commitment to the success of her students. She would go on to complete her graduate studies in the field of education.
Upon her retirement from the classroom, Grace returned to the historic Macon Community to care for her beloved mother and to continue her mission of community service, advocacy, and education. A founding member of the Macon School and Community Association, she worked tirelessly for over twenty years to preserve the community's history, restore the old schoolhouse, implement neighborhood crime prevention initiatives, organize community cleanups, and launch the annual school and community reunion picnic. Her efforts also led to the establishment of the Macon Community Park, enjoyed by community residents to the present day. In 1995, the Macon Community was recognized as “Neighborhood of the Year” by the Council of Neighborhood Associations and the Tallahassee Urban League, a testament to Grace's vision and the collective work of the community.
Grace is survived by her three sons, Guy Williams (Monique) of Seattle, WA, Weldon Clemons (Lisa) of Richmond, CA, and Kevin Clemons of Oakland, CA; her niece Carolyn Williams of Hercules, CA; five grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; as well as a host of other nieces and nephews, extended family members, godchildren, friends, former students, and neighbors whose lives have forever been enriched by her love, guidance, and wisdom. A devoted Saint throughout her life, she was a member of both the Ephesian COGIC (Berkeley CA) and Watson Temple Institutional COGIC (Tallahassee, FL). Grace was predeceased by her beloved parents and five siblings, who surely welcomed her home with open arms.
Funeral services are scheduled for 11 AM PST/2PM EST on August 15, 2025, at the Chapel of the Chimes in Oakland, CA. For those unable to attend in person, services will be available to stream online at: https://www.econdolence.com/r4rbrxfq.
The family is also planning a celebration for a later date in Tallahassee to honor her legacy. Please contact Kevin Clemons at (510) 860-7123 to request information about the upcoming Tallahassee celebration.
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