Ruth Helen Williamson

Ruth Helen Williamson, was born August 9, 1928 in Sylvarena, MS to the late Millie Bell Thompson Bender and Matthew Bender.

Ruth Helen lived in Sylvarena, Mississippi where she grew up.  She attended grade school and high school. Ruth accepted Christ at a young age and remained a faithful servant and served the Lord with great joy. 

Ruth Helen married Dewitt Williamson Sr. and moved to Joliet, IL in January 1952, where they raised 13 children.  Ruth was a stay- at-home mom; but her biggest job was to raise her children and grandchildren.  She taught them to love God, be respectful and pray.

Upon moving to Joliet, Illinois, Ruth joined Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Pastor James McNear and current Pastor Cedric Burkett Sr. and was a faithful servant. She was a member of the Silver and Gold Club and she accompanied them on many trips and also assisted with the food pantry.  Ruth also had many hobbies of which baking was her favorite.  All her bake goods were made from scratch, and her tea cakes were her all time favorite. She also enjoyed watching game shows and solving crossword puzzles. Ruth worked a short time for a local dry cleaners.

She is preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, Dewitt Williamson Sr.; one infant daughter, Celia Williamson, along with her parents, sister, Cleo (Dillard) Hamilton; and three brothers, Lincoln, James ”Bud” and Vardall; grandson, Tommy Jackson.

Ruth Helen transcended this earthly life on Saturday, April 11, 2026 in Joliet, Illinois. 

 She leaves to celebrate her life, 13 children: six sons, Melvin (Ida); Calvin, Wilson Lee; Dewitt Jr. (Debra); Kenny (Louise); and Donnell (Pamela) Williamson; seven daughters, Nelia (Bill) Yarbrough, Rosemary Stokes, Betty Jean, Sandra (Barry) Robinson, Jacquie, Lynnell, and Ruthie Mae; and her 133 combined grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great- great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who she loved very much and cherished her loving memories.

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