Williams, Erlene

September 30, 2011

Erlene Williams

Erlene Tolston Williams passed away on Friday, September 30, 2011 and has “gone home”. Mrs. Williams was born on November 30, 1919 to the late Richard and Claudia Tolston of Edgecombe County. She was married to the late Charles Omer Williams, Sr. of Battleboro, NC where they made a happy home for their family and friends for over 60 years. Surviving her are her sons, Charles Williams Jr. of Battleboro, NC and his wife Debbi; Philip Williams of Wanchese, NC and Judy T. Coltrane; Donald Williams of Jacksonville, NC and wife Sterling; Ronald Williams of Rocky Mount, NC and Phyllis; and Gregory Williams of Rocky Mount, NC.

Mrs. Williams was preceded in death by brothers Bill and wife Eunice Tolston, Harvey and wife Mirvaree Tolston, and Ernest and wife Margaret Tolston; sisters Helen and husband Hugh Poe, Ruth and husband Joseph Harper, and Verna and husband Smut Smith; sister-in-laws Phoebe Tolston and Lucky Tolston; and daughter-in-law Melissa Williams.

Her grandchildren are Chip Williams and wife Julie; Meredith Walker and husband Stephen; Hayes Williams of Raleigh, NC; Philip Williams of Charlotte, NC; Gray Williams and wife Sarah of Beaufort, NC; Tolston Williams and friend Lauren Waddell of Rocky Mount, NC; Jennifer Harrell and Donnie, of Gates, NC; and Timmy Sabotka of Wanchese, NC. Her great grandchildren are Kali Williams, Joshua Walker, Andrew and Ava Williams. Her surviving siblings are Maurice Tolston of West Edgecombe; Linwood Tolston of Kinston, NC; and Joyce Kfoury of Lawrence, MA and husband Kasper. She leaves behind many loving nephews and nieces and many special friends especially beloved caregiver, Anne Humphrey and Pete and Lynn Bradshaw.

Many people called her Aunt Erlene or Granny Williams, even those who weren’t really related. Her family extended far outside the familiar bounds and definition of that word. She welcomed everyone into her home and many remember the enormous meals that she prepared for any occasion or for no other reason than it was time to eat and she had plenty. Many received her little cards and notes (with absolutely correct zip codes) that congratulated them on their successes and achievements or consoled them in their times of sorrow and loss. Her generous spirit, her sincere love, her strong support, and her long and productive life are models for many of how simple kindness is such a generous and always welcome gift. Her kindness and love for her family and friends of all ages will be fondly remembered and cherished by all who knew her.

Funeral arrangements are by Cornerstone Funeral Home in Nashville, North Carolina. The visitation will be held from 7:00-9:00 PM on Monday, October 3, 2011 at Cornerstone Funeral Home and other times at the home of Greg Williams-5191 Oak Level Road, Rocky Mount, NC 27804 or at the home of Charles O. Williams Jr.-605 W. Battleboro Ave, Battleboro, NC 27809. The funeral service will be held on Tuesday, October 4, 2011 at 2:00 PM at Cornerstone Funeral Home with Rev. Daniel Moss officiating. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Sudan Shrine’s Crippled Children’s Hospital, 403 East Front St, New Bern, NC 28560, Nash Autism Seeking Hope, 5441 West Mount Dr, Nashville, NC 27856 or to the charity of your choice.

Aunt Erlene:
We will miss you. You have been the family counselor, nourisher, and friend always with open arms. I just know heaven has welcomed you with all its love.
Thank you.
"Cookie"
W. Edward Williams
williams3we@embarqmail.com

A truly compassionate and thoughtful woman who loved everyone. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Scott and Janie Weaver
janiepw@hotmail.com

Mrs. Williams was always so kind, she will truly be missed. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Rod and Mazie Holloman and family
Mazie Holloman
mazieph@yahoo.com

Mr. Williams & Family, we are truly sorry for your lost.
Love & God Bless.
Your 9:00 am students
Doris Jones and classmates
hdlibras6@yahoo.com

Aunt Erlene you were always bigger than life. We always had so much fun in the summers that we were able to come stay with you and Mamma Will and Daddy Will. We will miss you and your loving smile. Love to all your boys. Myra Talma
mtmays.mays@gmail.com

Dear Greg and family, my deepest regrets go out to you and your family. Your mother was a ray of sunshine every morning that I visited the Battleboro Post Office. She was a special and kind person to all. I know she'll be truly missed.
Sincerely, Ernie Spoor
Ms. Ernie Spoor
evspoor@aol.com