Gladys Marie Farrish Williams

Gladys Marie Farrish Williams, a beloved registered nurse and cherished matriarch, peacefully departed this world on June 26, 2025, at the age of 91. Born on August 27, 1933, she graced the lives of many with her unwavering compassion, dedication, and love. Gladys's life was a testament to kindness, service, and familial devotion, as she spent her days caring for others both professionally and personally.

Known for her gentle spirit and nurturing demeanor, Gladys devoted many years to her career as a registered nurse, where she touched countless lives with her healing hands and compassionate heart. Her commitment to serving others was a calling she answered with grace, often working tirelessly to ensure the well-being of her patients.

Family was the cornerstone of Gladys's life. She is survived by her daughter, Dawn Marie Smith (James), who resides in Port Gibson, MS. Gladys took immense pride in being a grandmother to Sherry Ann Hinchey of Golden, CO; Delana Wash Byrum of MS; Corey Gray of Las Vegas, NV; Gretchen Barber (Rick) of Mendenhall, MS; Robbin Nelson of Meridian, MS; Robert Gray (Linda) of DeKalb, MS; Kyle Williams (Aleice); Quinton Williams (Angel); and Xavier Smith, all of Port Gibson, MS. A doting great-grandmother to 24 great-grandchildren and a cherished great-great-grandmother to 3, her legacy of love runs deep through the generations.

Gladys had the joy of sharing her life with her brothers, Willie Farrish (Veronica) and George Farrish (Doris), who held her close in heart. Her family tree also branches wide through numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins, each of whom carry cherished memories of her kindness and warmth.

Preceded in death by her beloved husband, Freddie D. Williams, with whom she shared 26 wonderful years, and her daughter Joann Nelson Gray, Gladys’s departure leaves an indelible mark on the hearts she leaves behind. She is also reunited with her parents, Joseph Farrish Sr. and Susie Carpenter Farrish, and siblings Lillie Farrish Collins, Joseph Farrish Jr., and Clotiel Farrish Carlysle. Their spirits join hers in a serene embrace, united once more.

In addition to her family, she dearly adored her cats and grandkittens, who brought her much joy and companionship throughout her life. It is these small yet significant aspects of her personality that remind us of the love she exuded daily.

The celebration of Gladys's remarkable life will commence with a visitation on July 5, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM, with family being present from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM, at C J Williams Mortuary Center located at 1625 Monroe Street, Vicksburg, MS. A heartfelt Celebration of Life will follow on July 6, 2025, starting at 2:00 PM,  at the same location.

Gladys Marie Farrish Williams will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love, care, and warmth will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew her. As we celebrate her life, let us carry forth her spirit of compassion and dedication to one another.