In Memory
Joan Flo (Bland) Williams
November 21, 1933 ~ February 4, 2025
Joan Flo Williams, a cherished soul who graced this world with her presence for 91 years, was called to her eternal home on February 4, 2025. Born on November 21, 1933, in the heart of South Bend, IN, Joan's journey began as the beloved daughter of Raymond and Mary Ann Bland, both of whom preceded her in that heavenly march. Joan's life was further blessed when she joined hands and hearts with her dear husband, Rex Williams, and together they navigated the waters of life for 51 glorious years until his passing.
In the very town she first drew breath, South Bend, IN, Joan Flo Williams peacefully entered into rest, her life's song reaching its tender end due to congestive heart failure. But oh, what a melody she composed with her days on earth! Joan's legacy continues to echo through the lives of her devoted children: Cindy Finney and partner Howard Morse, Gregg and Brenda Williams, Jon and Cindy Williams, and Andrew Williams. Each of them a reflection of her love and steadfast spirit.
The branches of her family tree blossomed with the joy of her grandchildren: Alex, married to Nicole Williams, Alison Kinnison, Holly Williams, Scott Barnes, Heather (Davis) Tolbert and Scott Davis. And as the seasons turned, she beheld the sprouting of her great-grandchildren: Remington, Maverick & Weston Williams, and Ember Mae Barnes. Each a tender bud nurtured by her enduring affection and faith-filled prayers.
Joan's hands, ever busy and ever giving, found great delight in the art of sewing, stitching love into every Raggedy Ann & Andy Doll she crafted. Her soul, attuned to the divine, found solace in music, with old church hymns like "The Old Rugged Cross" resonating deeply within her heart. These were the simple joys that she cherished, the melodies and memories that she leaves behind as a testament to her warmth and generosity.
Joan's spirit of service was most evident in her over 50 years of active membership at Westminster Presbyterian Church. She served with a heart full of grace and hands eager to uplift others. Her faith was the compass by which she navigated life, and her unwavering commitment to her church family stands as an enduring legacy of her faith-filled life.
Words that best capture the essence of Joan are "friendly" and "faith-filled." Her smile was a beacon of hospitality, inviting all who crossed her path into a space of warmth and camaraderie. Her faith was the bedrock upon which she built her life, a source of strength and comfort through the ebbs and flows of her earthly pilgrimage.
As we remember Joan Flo Williams, let us not dwell in the shadows of sorrow but rather bask in the light of her life well-lived. Let us carry forward the melody of her legacy in acts of kindness, in songs of faith, and in the love we share with one another. For in doing so, we affirm that though her voice may have stilled, the chorus of her influence will resound through generations.
As we commend her spirit to the Almighty, we rejoice in the knowledge that Joan has been welcomed into the heavenly choir, her voice now lifted in eternal praise. And we, who are left to cherish her memory, shall continue to walk in the light of the love she so freely gave. Until that day when we shall meet again on that distant shore, we say, "Farewell, dear Joan, your journey here is complete, but your story—oh, your story—lives on in the hearts of those you've touched." Amen.
A private graveside service for family and a celebration of life service in April with dates to be announced. Palmer Funeral Home – Welsheimer North Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be left at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.
02/08/2025 djb
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