Essie Mae Williams

Essie Mae Williams, 92, of Sedalia, MO, passed peacefully surrounded by her family on Tuesday, December 19, 2023, at EW Thompson Health and Rehabilitation Center in Sedalia.
She was born on October 12, 1931, in Bowdon, GA, the daughter of Lee Stephens and Verlie Sims, who preceded her in death. She was one of 13 half brothers and sisters. On February 12, 1949, in Massillon, Ohio, she was united in marriage to Clarence Douglas Williams, who preceded her in death on March 23, 1997.
Essie was a homemaker raising their four children until they relocated to Sedalia in 1967. She began working for Rest Haven and then Bothwell Regional Health Center. She retired after 20 years as a nursing assistant but remained busy spending time with friends and family and doing the things she loved.
Essie was an amazing cook and loved to bake. She spent the spring and summer months passionately nurturing her massive garden and canning everything from tomatoes to green beans and corn. She spread her passion for baking and gardening by sharing her homemade goodies with neighbors, friends, and family. Her love for gardening and cooking was passed down to her grandchildren. Essie enjoyed fishing with her children and grandchildren. She loved dancing and was an avid fan of country music, especially Watermelon Slim. Her love of music and dancing brought her to one of her favorite places for live music, Dickie Doo Barbeque. She also loved decorating, shopping for the holidays, and cooking for family gatherings. Essie was iconic for her love of hats, especially to her extended family members at E.W. Thompson. Her hats embodied her true character and spirit.
Her family legacy includes four children, Victoria Williams, Gloria Bress and husband David, Clarence Williams, Jr., all of Forest Hill, TX, Conchetta Murray and husband Vincent of Sedalia; 14 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; 15 great-great-grandchildren; a cousin, Bertha Crumble of Boston, MA; and many nieces and nephews. She also leaves behind many close friends.
Essie was preceded in death by her parents, a number of siblings, and her husband, Clarence. She was the guardian to Cordelia Kelly for 35 years, who also preceded her in death.
The family will hold a private memorial gathering at Memorial Park Cemetery on Thursday, December 28, 2023.
The family requests that friends sign the online guest book in memory of Essie. Memorial contributions may be made to Three Rivers Hospice or E.W. Thompson Health and Rehab in the care of Rea Funeral Chapel.