On May 6, 2023, Elder Helen Louise Williams was rewarded with her wings. Surrounded by loved ones, on a day that was planned for her birthday celebration, she took her last breath and entered the Kingdom of Heaven.

Born on May 15, 1938, in Philadelphia, PA, Helen was the daughter of Doris and Frank Prettyman. Her siblings, Camilla Irby and Frank Prettyman Jr., preceded her in death.

In 1957, she married Samuel K. Williams (deceased). Together they raised the "fabulous five" who all became college graduates because Helen would not have it any other way.

While others who were raising their children at the same time did not believe that one family could have all their children graduate from college, Helen declared with great faith and with no uncertainty, about the educational success of her children. She implanted educational excellence in her children and never settled for less.

She had great expectations not only for her children but also for those who were willing to avail themselves to her advice. She used the word of God as the standard for righteous living.

Helen will always be known as an activist and a trailblazer. Throughout her entire life, she never backed down from a challenge. Whether through leading troops in both Girls and Boys Scouts of America or organizing parents and citizens towards social justice through Philadelphia's Parents Union or the Welfare to Work program, Helen steadfastly led people to justice and hope.

In 1983, after raising her 5 children, Helen felt led to pursue her lifelong dream of going to college. By God's grace and promise, she attended Temple University earning her bachelor's and master's degrees in social work administration. From there, she served the wider Philadelphia area by working with citizens in various areas. While using her degrees, she tirelessly served the elderly; patients suffering with Aids and those in hospice care.

A Christian counselor and teacher at heart, Elder Helen was always willing to offer words of wisdom and encouragement to all who surrounded her. Throughout her life, she invested in each of us by speaking truth and wisdom into our hearts and souls by teaching Bible Study, preaching rousing sermons or listening and providing guidance and words of comfort to those who were in need.

By using her spiritual influence and gifts, she led all her children and countless others to accept Christ as their Lord and Savior.

Helen's ministry spanned many years. She used the word of God and her personal testimony as a road map to spread His message and to lead many souls to Christ. Even as she was preparing to take her last breath, she was dropping spiritual gems and blessings to those who came to visit or called. Whenever God led her to share his word, she was always ready and able.

Helen believed that her walk with God should be a representation of his goodness and mercy. She opened her home to anyone seeking help. No matter what time or at any hour, she would provide a haven of good food, laughter, and spiritual advice.

She loved serving God and assisted many through harrowing times by exemplifying God's love and grace and for that reason, always believed she would pastor a church one day. Serving as an Elder, both inside and outside of a church edifice expanded her ministry in ways that only could have been ordained by God.

Helen's dauntless energy influences us still. Words such as "matriarch", "indomitable," "unconquerable" and yes, "fashionable" are words that easily come to mind when describing her influence on family, friends, and the wider community. Whether it was through educating us about the African American diaspora or showing unfailing support to black-owned businesses, her presence was welcomed, cherished, and honored.

She will be remembered as one who fought for her family, church, and friendships. We love you mom, Elder Helen, and Reverend Williams. You are irreplaceable and will forever be in our hearts.

Helen is survived by her children Kevin Williams, Crystal Collins (Kayeef), Kellyann Williams, Wendy Thomas (George). Samuel Williams Jr., her first born, preceded her in death. She is mourned by her beloved grandchildren and great grandchildren who fondly referred to her as "Ayietta", and her God daughter Angel Long (Tyrone). She is also mourned by many nieces and nephews and shared a special relationship with Cheryl Horsey and Warren Fluellen.