Monroe Dispatch - No Struggle, No Progress

Former Monroe resident Mary Delores Williams 84, transitioned January 26, 2021 in Oakland, CA. She was the oldest daughter of Johnnie E. Williams, Sr. and Armender L. Williams. Mary Delores grew up in the Newtown community of Monroe. As a child, Mary Delores confessed Jesus as her Savior and was baptized at Mount Pleasant Missionary Baptist Church, Monroe, LA. She was a 1955 graduate of Carroll High School. For over 30 years, Mary Delores worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant. Once she retired, Mary continued a life of service to her church and community. As a community activist, Mary was appointed to serve on several civic initiatives sponsored by the City of Richmond, CA. She played an integral role in the City of Richmond receiving the HOPE 6 grant which funded new housing throughout the city. Until recent years, she was an active member of the Senior Choir of Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church in Richmond. Mary was an avid reader, a lover of history, and she enjoyed singing. She was the mother of two sons Keith Williams and Mark Walker whom she loved immensely. She is preceded in death by her parents; two brothers – Johnnie Jr. and Jory (Shug) Williams, one sister – Essie D. Williams Mercy. She leaves to cherish her memory: her sons, Keith and Mark; a granddaughter, Janell Walker, her great grandchildren, a sister, DeWanna Williams Greer, San Antonio, TX; a brother, Grayling B. Williams, San Antonio, TX; two sisters in law, Lillie Mae Williams, Kansas City, KS and Linda McCloud Williams, Monroe, LA; a brother in law, Robert L. Mercy, Stafford, TX; a dear cousin, Barbara Jean Saucer, Richmond, CA; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and her church family.