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Celebrating the life of Dorothy E. Williams
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Obituary for Dorothy E. Williams
A celebration of Dorothy's life will occur on
Wednesday, September 1, 2021
Vine Memorial Baptist Church 5600 West Girard Avenue Philadelphia, Pa. 19131
Viewing: 10:00 -11:00 a.m.
Service: 11:00 a.m.
Livestreaming Service is being offered
Go to www.cwoodfh.com . Click the third box under Dorothy's' picture Click "watch Webcast:"
The Live Stream Service will begin at: 10:45 a.m.
We request family and friends who prefer to send plants or flowers, to coordinate with one of the following reliable local florists:..
Have the florist deliver your selection to the church no later than 8:30 a.m. the day of the service.
DUE TO A GLITCH IN OUR SYSTEM PLEASE DISREGARD THE FOLLOWING NOTATION REGARDING ANY ORDERS INCLUDING FLOWERS, CANDLES OR MEMORIAL TREE PLANTINGS WITH THE TRIBUTE STORE!!!! THANK YOU!!
Life Story
DOROTHY EVANGELINE WILLIAMS, the daughter of the late Abraham Lincoln Chesley and Ellen Maud Chesley, was born on December 14, 1921 in Maddox, Maryland. She departed this life in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on August 20, 2021.
She originally attended Shiloh Baptist Church and was united through baptism with the Vine Memorial Baptist Church in 1953. A faithful member, Dorothy (affectionally known as “Dot”) rarely missed an opportunity to attend Sunday church services when she sang with the Inspirational Chorus. Dot sang with the Inspirational Chorus for over 30 years. She served on the Community Service Committee and volunteered at Barrett Elementary School for more than five years. During Mother’s Day service on May 10, 2015 , Dorothy was presented a plaque by the Rev. Dr. James S. Allen, Sr. for being the “Oldest Active Member” at Vine Memorial.
Dorothy was initially educated in the schools of St Mary’s County, Maryland, and furthered her education in Philadelphia. Upon leaving her parents’ home in Maddox, Maryland, Dot resided in Washington, D.C. There she was employed for the first time, at the Veterans’ Administration in Washington. After awhile, Dorothy moved to Philadelphia where she again became employed at the Veterans’ Administration (VA).
In Philadelphia, on February 1, 1943, Dorothy united in marriage to George Williams. From this union they raised four children: Sondra A. Bibbs, Myron Williams (Vikki), Burton D. Williams, and Alden G. Williams. With a growing family, Dorothy left the VA to focus on managing her home and raising her children. As their children grew, Dorothy began working as domestic help in nearby homes. Dot enjoyed traveling, particularly to Washington to reunite with her family. She and George planned and took a dream trip to Israel in December 1976. Following George’s passing in June 1979, she would continue travel via airplanes, trains, ships, buses, and cars with family and friends. Dot visited countries in three continents, and many states, including Hawaii. An independent woman, Dorothy lived alone until her mid nineties. She was frequently seen by neighbors on daily walks around Carroll Park as well as shopping in Center City and area malls. Speaking of shopping, when asked what was her favorite TV channel, she would respond “QVC.” Dot’s shopping resulted in her stylish and impeccable appearance at all events.
Dorothy was a warm and caring friend, a loving mother, and a devoted daughter. She believed in helping those in need. She always gave thanks to God for his many blessings and encouraged others to do the same. On Sunday, she marched her children off to Sunday School, and ensured they participated in church activities. Her spirituality showed that she loved The Lord and was faithful to His Word, meditating on The Law of The Lord day and night. She was so inspired by the “Church Covenant” that she would often have it read to her while reciting some of her favorite passages. When her health and/or the pandemic precluded regular attendance at church, Dorothy would rarely miss Saturday radio ministry or Sunday service via the internet.
She was a regular member of the AARP West Park Chapter #4037 since 1987. Active close to home, Dot was the Alden Street Civic League secretary and treasurer. Every month, she would go door-to-door collecting dues that funded activities in support of residents.
Dot was known for her joyous laugh and her beautiful smile. Throughout her life her mind was sharp and her unique wit was quick. She made those who visited, always feel welcomed. Dorothy enjoyed children, but visits from her grandchildren always brought her great joy.
She is preceded in death by four siblings: Robert Chesley, Walter Chesley, Franklin Chesley, and Charlotte Young; and a great-granddaughter, Kairo Williams Robinson.
Dorothy leaves to cherish her memory: a brother, William Chesley and a sister, Georgia Chesley; four children; four grandchildren, Danika Williams, Erica S. Bates (Steve) of Annapolis, MD, Damon Williams (Chena) of Middletown, DE and Micaela Mills of Ft Worth, Texas; six great-grandchildren, Stephen Staples, Kierstin and Karez Williams-Robinson Symonne Bates, Tayla Williams, Kamyah Williams; and one great great-grandson, Zayd Claitt; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends to also include: special “daughters,” Valerie Wood (Fred) and Karin Mae; friends, neighbors and caregivers, Annette Gumby and JoAnn Stewart. A special acknowledgment of her closest and most supportive nieces, and friends: Mildred Young, Daidrian Davis, Mrs Edna Delk, and Mrs Effie Glenn. Truly, Dorothy Evangeline Williams loved life and she made the world a brighter place for all who knew her.
