Barbara Williams

Barbara Williams, a remarkable woman whose life was defined by love, resilience, and boundless generosity, peacefully departed this world on June 14, 2026, at the age of 85. Born on February 15, 1941, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Barbara was the cherished daughter of Alberta and LJ Johnson. She was predeceased by her beloved parents, her husband Willie T. Williams, her brothers Charles Barnett and Lawrence E. Johnson, and her sisters Violetta Hill and Lilliebell Banks. Barbara's life was a testament to the power of family and community. She is survived by her devoted children, Willie Jr., Charlotte, David & Leslie Williams, and Monroe & Mae Adkins-Williams, who carry forward her legacy of strength and compassion. Her love and wisdom will be forever cherished by her eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, Kylen and Kinsley. Barbara also leaves behind her dear sister Narva and brother-in-law David Johnson, along with a host of nieces, nephews, and beloved family friends across Oklahoma City, Kansas, and California. Her goddaughters, Taria and family, and Jerri Boseman and family, will fondly remember her nurturing spirit. In 1957, Barbara married the love of her life, Willie Thomas Williams, and together they built a family grounded in love and mutual respect, until his passing in 2019. Inspired by her parents, who were the first Black hotel owners in downtown Oklahoma, Barbara exhibited a natural talent for entrepreneurship. At the tender age of 15, she opened a successful hamburger stand in Oklahoma City. Her enterprising spirit led her to own and operate an auto detailing shop in California in 1975 and a fresh salad bar in Anchorage, Alaska, in 1982. Barbara's commitment to fostering community extended beyond her business ventures. As a dedicated public servant, she opened her heart and home to over 200 foster children over 20 years in Alaska and Oklahoma City. Her legacy of care and compassion is one that has touched countless lives. An alumna of Long Beach City College, Barbara completed courses in real estate and motorcycle riding, always eager to learn and embrace new experiences. As one of the founding board members of The Larry Johnson Foundation and a member of the Alaskan NAACP since 1982, she championed causes close to her heart. Barbara was known for her incredible cooking, her passion for creating abstract art, and her love for nature and adventure. Her impeccable smile and welcoming warmth lit up every room, and her stylish presence left a lasting impression on those who crossed her path. A service to celebrate Barbara's extraordinary life will be held on July 11, 2026, at 1:00 PM at the Red Bud Senior Living Community Center, located at 144 NW 115th Street. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the exceptional professionals at Baptist Integris Hospital, Tuscany Village, and Heart to Heart Hospice Care for their compassionate and gentle support. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a charitable organization of your choice in Barbara's honor. Her life was a beacon of hope and love, and her spirit will continue to inspire us all.