In Loving Memory of Ms. Martha Lee Williams March 15, 1950 – April 8, 2025

Ms. Martha Lee Williams, 75, of Elkhart, Indiana, passed away peacefully and surrounded by love on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at 11:38 a.m. at the Ernestine A. Raclin Hospice House in Mishawaka, Indiana. After a courageous and grace-filled battle with a prolonged illness, Martha found her eternal rest, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, faith, and family.

Born on March 15, 1950, in Blytheville, Arkansas, to the late George and Missouria (Wilkins) Williams, Martha's life was one defined by strength, compassion, and quiet resilience. She was the heart of her family, the keeper of traditions, and the soul of every room she entered. Along with her parents, she is now reunited in eternal peace with her beloved sisters, Georgia B. Beal and Dorothy Mae Johnson, and her dearest companion in life, Qudella "Joe" Johnson, who shared her heart and her journey for many cherished years.

Left to carry forward her memory are her devoted children: Anthony "Tony" Williams of Elkhart, Brian Williams of Mishawaka, and Linda A. Carr of Elkhart. She also leaves behind a proud and loving legacy in her 11 grandchildren, many great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members — each of whom held a special place in her heart.

Martha's roots in family were deep and wide, nurtured by bonds that stood the test of time. She is also lovingly survived by her brothers Calvin (Ruth "Diane") Furlough of Benton Harbor, Michigan, and James (Lula) Williams, Melvin Williams, Willie (Stephanie) Williams, Johnny Williams, and Curtis (Paula Hawkins) Williams, all of Elkhart. Her sisters, Diane Williams and Annette (Joseph "Jose") Johnson of Elkhart, Rose "Jackie" (Eddie) Marshall of Benton Harbor, and Rosie Williams of Oakland, California, were not only her siblings but her lifelong friends and confidantes.

Martha spent nearly 35 years serving others through her work in the housekeeping department of Elkhart General Hospital, a place where her strong work ethic, warm smile, and unwavering reliability left a lasting impression. She brought comfort and care not only to patients but also to her colleagues, many of whom became lifelong friends.

Outside of her work, Martha truly came alive in the company of those she loved. She was a joyful and spirited woman who lived life fully and without regrets. Family gatherings were her favorite pastime — and food was her love language. Her spaghetti was the stuff of legend, her sweet potato pie the highlight of every holiday table, and her dressing an irresistible crowd-pleaser. No one ever left her home hungry — and few left without a laugh, a hug, or a story to tell.

She was also known to enjoy the occasional getaway to the Blue Chip Casino, where she delighted in the energy and excitement. But her truest joy came from her faith. A devoted and active member of Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church in Elkhart, Martha sang in the church choir with soul and conviction, her voice rising in harmony with her spirit. Her faith was a guiding light in her life — a constant through joy and sorrow, illness and health, and ultimately in her peaceful transition home.

In keeping with her wishes, Martha has been cremated and will be returned home to remain close to the family she loved so deeply. No immediate services or gatherings are planned, and Billings Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Elkhart is honored to be assisting the family at this time.

Martha Lee Williams will be remembered not only for the warmth she gave to the world but for the strength she carried through life's storms, the laughter she shared so freely, and the love she gave so generously. She was a mother, a sister, a grandmother, a friend, and a woman of grace. Though her earthly journey has ended, her light will shine on — in every recipe passed down, every hymn sung, every smile shared among those who knew her best.

"Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord." —Matthew 25:21