MERLE WILLIAMS

1925-2021

Merle Williams, born February 7, 1925, in Harwood, Texas, to Simon and Mayme Hendershot, died February

21, 2021.

A graduate of Texas Women’s University, Merle and Charles W. Williams, United Methodist Clergy, were married 66 years when Charles died in 2013. They served Texas Annual Conference appointments in Chireno, Joaquin, Chandler, Tyler, Canton, Beaumont (Trinity), Longview, Houston (Memorial Drive & St. Paul’s), Annual Conference Area Provost, Houston East District, Galveston (Moody), Houston Southwest District.

Known for her kindness, loving heart and gracious spirit, Merle lived her life in service to others through her teaching, church involvement, United Methodist Women, the Houston Junior League, and Houston Methodist Hospital Service Corps.

Predeceased by husband Charles W. Williams, son-inlaw Rev. Jim W. Foster, her parents, siblings Opal McGee, Mozelle Fullilove, Simon Hendershot, Jr., Merle is survived by daughter Rosemarie Foster, granddaughters Stacye Foster, Stefanie Foster-Ciabattari,

great-granddaughter Chloe Ciabattari; son James (Judy) Williams, extended family and friends.

The family extends their gratitude to the staff and caregivers at the Buckingham Houston, where Merle and Charles lived since 2005.

The family gathered March 2 for private interment. Memorial service is March 15, 1:00 pm at St. Peter’s United Methodist Church, Katy, livestream available. Covid restrictions will be followed. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be directed to Methodist Children’s Home, 1111 Herring Avenue, Waco, TX 76708