Mother Johnnie Bell Williams (October 1, 1937 – September 18, 2020)

Visitation: Friday, October 2, 2020
Visitation Time: 4:00 – 6:00 PM
Visitation Location: Postell’s Mortuary Chapel
811 North Powers Drive
Orlando, Florida

Obituary:

Mother Johnnie Bell Williams, 82, of Orlando departed this life on Friday, September 18, 2020. Mother Williams was born in Americus, Georgia on October 1, 1937 to John Robert Williams and Mary Emma Williams. Johnnie was the oldest of 17 children born to this union and blessed to live a full life. While growing up in Georgia, she lived with her grandmother, Rebecca who affectionately gave her the nickname “Teddy” because of her round “teddy-bear” like cheeks. Teddy attended schools in Sumter County, and throughout her life earned the reputation of having a strong family focus and being a hard worker.

In 1964, Johnnie and her 5 children relocated to Orlando, Florida where she married and added a son to our beautiful family. Throughout the early years in Orlando, Johnnie continued to work hard and sacrifice to provide for her family. Ultimately, she reinvented herself by returning to school and joining the medical team at Orlando Health Regional Medical Center in the X-ray department. This was a tremendous accomplishment and after 20+ years of service she retired from Orange Memorial Hospital.

After retirement, she remained committed to her community. She volunteered for the Foster Grandparents in support of the Boys & Girls after school program. For years, children from her own black community rushed into her arms for an afternoon hug, chat and they fondly referred to her “Grandma.”

Mother Johnnie loved The Lord, she eventually united with El Bethel Temple at Orlando where she faithfully served until her health no longer permitted. “Teddy” loved her family and hosted several family reunions and birthday celebrations where beautiful memories were made. She was a giver personified, a wiling and humble vessel for the Lord. She lived her life doing God’s Will and Work by giving generously to her family, church, and community. She gave of herself to others so they could have a better quality of life. It is no question that the community will miss the presence of Mother Johnnie Bell “Teddy” Williams.

Mother’s children, grandchildren and great grandchildren meant the world to her, and even after her health failed her, she never forgot her family and others she loved. Mother is now resting in the blossom of Jesus where there is no more pain or sorrow. She has her wings now, and Heaven has another angel. Her memory will forever be treasured by all that knew and loved her.

She leaves to cherish her memory 5 Children: Patsy Williams (Marvin) Parker, Lois (Don) Rivers, Ann Williams, Brenda (Leon) Reddick, and F. 51 Wilson (Susan); 16 Grandchildren; 23 plus Great Grandchildren; 5 plus Great Great Grandchildren; Brothers, Leroy (Blue), Jerry, Jerome; Sisters, Mary Ella, Jackie, Doris, Dorothy; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Visitation will be held on Friday, October 2, 2020 from 4-6PM at the mortuary. A private funeral service for Mother Williams will be held at a later date and time.

Executive Order in response to the COVID-19 Pandemic… we will only allow 10 individuals in at a time to enter the funeral home. We must adhere to these guidelines so that we all can remain safe and secure during this crisis. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.