Ms. Inez Williams

“For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” II Timothy 4:6–7 Miss Inez Williams, daughter of the late Mrs. Leona Poole-Bond, who preceded her in death, was born on Sunday, September 17, 1944. Miss Inez Williams peacefully transitioned from labor to eternal reward on February 25, 2026, at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee. Miss Inez Williams lived a life that was a testament to faith, compassion, and quiet strength. Her presence was a steady light, and her kindness left an imprint on everyone blessed to know her. Her life’s journey reflected humility, perseverance, and a deep commitment to family and community. Whether offering a listening ear, sharing wisdom, or extending a helping hand, she embodied the virtues she held dear. To many, she was a nurturer, a counselor, and a source of encouragement. At an early age, Miss Inez Williams gave her heart to the Lord at Summerfield Missionary Baptist Church in Forrest City, Arkansas, where she worshipped and flourished in her love for the Lord. From that moment forward, her steps were ordered by God, and she walked in faith, trusting Him through every season of her life. She was educated in the Forrest City School District and was a proud graduate of Lincoln High School, Class of 1963, a generation marked by perseverance, dignity, and purpose. As a young woman, she journeyed to Chicago, Illinois, where destiny continued to unfold. There, she began her new chapter working at Bekins Van Lines. She also served as a crossing guard, protecting the lives of children, and later dedicated many years of service to the Chicago City Clerk’s Office until her retirement. Even in the marketplace, her life reflected kindness, love, and compassion, qualities that amplified her warm and welcoming personality. Upon returning to Arkansas, Miss Inez Williams continued her mission of service at the St. Francis County Health Unit, the Forrest City Senior Citizens Center, and as a Certified Nursing Assistant. She was also a devoted foster parent, opening her heart and home to those who needed the embrace of a mother’s love. Her spiritual walk continued at Saints’ Temple Church of God in Christ, where she faithfully worshipped. She did not just attend church; her kindness was her ministry, her giving was her testimony, and her conversations were her fellowship. Miss Inez Williams found joy in the simple blessings God provided. She delighted in thrift shopping and rummage sales, planting flowers and tending her garden, watching things grow as a reminder of the beauty of God’s creation. She loved people and never met a stranger. Her heart was a well that never ran dry, always giving, always loving, always sharing. If you encountered her, you encountered warmth. If you spoke with her, you felt joy. She was preceded in death by her father, Oliver Williams; five sisters, Georgia Lee Hardy, Francis Mae Humphrey, Ora Lee Barton, Dorothy Mae Poole, and Carrie Lee Smith; and two brothers, Larry Bond and Rayfield Bond, who now stand with her in that great cloud of witnesses. She leaves to cherish her precious memories her beloved partner, Curtis McDaniel of Palestine, Arkansas, whose steadfast companionship brought her comfort and joy for more than twenty years. She also leaves to celebrate her legacy her beloved children, Loretta (Larry) Foney of South Holland, Illinois, Raymond (Jennifer) Williams of Kearney, Nebraska, and Kareem Williams of Chicago, Illinois; six grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; her loving siblings, James Bond of Palestine, Arkansas, Charlie (Willie) Bond of Little Rock, Arkansas, Danny (Louise) Bond of Palestine, Arkansas, and Leona Mae Bond of Sherwood, Arkansas; her best friend and cousin, Wavene Smith of Palestine, Arkansas; her daily companions in life and fellowship, Diane Barton of Palestine, Arkansas, Eddie Lee Humphrey of Forrest City, Arkansas, Melissa McClinic of Forrest City, Arkansas, Jerry Green of Forrest City, Arkansas, Yvonne Green of Forrest City, Arkansas, and Anita and Anthony Gaynor of Little Rock, Arkansas; along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended relatives, and many friends, each carrying the imprint of her kindness and the warmth of her presence. Today we do not say goodbye. We say well done. Well done to a life of service. Well done to a life of love. Well done to a life of faith. Her work on earth is finished, her crown has been won, and she now rests in the presence of the Lord, where there is fullness of joy and peace forevermore.

Ms. Inez Williams

September 17, 1944 - February 25, 2026