Thelma Pauline Williams

Thelma Pauline Williams, age 96, a life-time resident of Columbus, OH, passed away on Wednesday, December 5, 2018 at the Manor at Whitehall following a fall at her residence. She was born to William and Olive (Jackson) George on December 29, 1921 in Columbus, OH. She was one of five daughters. Her family attended Union Grove Baptist Church where Thelma first learned about the Lord. She loved music and started playing the piano by ear during her teen years and later learned to read sheet music. Thelma attended Columbus Public Schools and graduated from East High School. On September 12, 1950 she married David Williams and they were blessed with seven children: Priscilla, David, Brenda, Paul, Carlotta, Cheryl and Michael. Thelma later joined Galilee Baptist Church and served as Minister of Music. For over 30 years, she played for various churches, centers and senior housing facilities throughout the area such as St. Mark Baptist, Mt. Olivet Baptist, Centenary Baptist and Powell Bible Churches. Thelma’s strong personal relationship with the Lord led her to learn of the Seventh-day Adventist faith where she became a faithful member and worker of the Adventist Church for over 40 years. Her positions in the church include Gospel & Male Chorus Choir Director, Ephesus Food Pantry Coordinator and Community Food Pantry Associate, Asst. Sabbath School Superintendent, and provided musical programs at several Nursing Homes. In 1993, Thelma was invited and accepted the invitation, by Elder Roosevelt Boddie, to become the Pianist for the Southside SDA (today Fruit of the Spirit) congregation. She was one of the original Charter members and the “Mother” for Fruit of the Spirit SDA Church who continued to play weekly for the Lord until her recent fall. Thelma worked as a Teacher’s Aid for the local school system and retired from Fair Avenue Elementary School. She was a warm, friendly and loving person who faithfully attended weekly Bible Study. Her hobbies included sewing, writing, solving and creating puzzles and Bible Seek & Find word search mazes. Thelma also received a patent for a children’s game that she designed. Her favorite color was purple and she loved roses. In addition, Thelma loved cats and had a loyal companion named “Smokie”. Thelma was preceded in death by her parents William and Olive (Jackson) George; sisters, Edith Harris, Olive Cochran, Mildred Cummings; husband David Williams; and daughter Priscilla E. Vance. She is survived by her children: David Williams, Brenda (Anson) Jarrett, Paul Williams, Carlotta Williams, Cheryl (Williams) Baker, Michael Williams; 13 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews and close friends.