Ernestine "Tina" Williams
March 2, 1929 - August 28, 2023
Obituary
Ernestine, better known as “Tina”, was born in Fayetteville, North Carolina to the proud parents of Stewart and Fannie Jane Durden on March 2, 1929. She was the 10th of 13 children born to this union. All have preceded her in death.
Tina was always a family person who truly loved her brothers and sisters. She often spoke about them growing up together and sharing life stories of the many challenges they experienced.
In the late 40’s, Tina moved to Seattle, WA, and lived with her older sister Gladys Lockhart and her husband James Lockhart. She gained employment in the hospitality industry, which included private and downtown high-end facilities (i.e., Seattle Yacht Club, Rainier Club, Seattle Tennis Club, and the Olympic Hotel Golden Lion). She also was a licensed Real Estate Agent.
She met and married Lawrence (Larry) Williams and they welcomed Mark and Lauren to their union. Tina was very proud of both of her children and often spoke about their accomplishments. She often opened her home to other family members and close friends that relocated to Seattle.
Tina became a member of the First A.M.E. Church in the early 50’s. She participated on several committees, including March Circle Chairperson, sang in the Senior Choir, Missionary Society, and remained a member in good standing until her health issues limited her ability to attend, but read her Bible daily.
Tina became employed by the Seattle Public Schools in 1969. During her time with the SPS, she will be fondly remembered for her duties as Security Officer.
Tina was well known and respected by the students as she became a mentor and parent figure to many. She refused to let them misbehave and she offered no mercy to them when they did. (smile)
Tina was an avid reader of books, loved playing Scrabble, Bid Whiz, and other card games, and going to the casino. She loved cooking and entertaining family and friends. She had quite a sense of humor and would call it as she saw it! (laugh)
She is survived by her daughter, Lauren Kendricks, son, C. Mark Williams (Marie), grand-children, Robert (Bobby) Oden, Vincent (Vernetta) Williams, Christopher (Chris) Williams, great-granddaughter Viviana Williams, and soon to be born another great-grandchild.
She also has a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and their extended family members around the world.
Additionally, she leaves to mourn her are her local nieces & nephews, Shannan & Valencia Durden, nephew Richard Durden, Bernard (Cher), Michael, Phillip (Beth) Thompson, Maxine (Larry) Jones, and Shara (Zack) McAdory, as well as son-in-law William (Bill) G. Lowe.
Long-time friends, Florence Harrell, Ruth Render. God Sons Morgan LaVance Powell and Cedric Milliam. God Daughter Michelle Manning. Tina also held fond memories of her “Golden Girls” buddies who preceded her in passing. Zelda Kelly Baldwin and Pat Manning.
Rest in peace Mom, Mama Tina, Grandma. We will always miss and love you dearly, but we know that God loves you more and has called you home.
To my dear Cousin Lauren. Mark Bobby and Family, Words cannot express my sincere condolences on the passing of
my dear aunt Tina. She treated me like a daughter, and our bond was so special. Know that I am praying for your peace, comfort, and strength today and in the days ahead. Know that you are not alone— May the God of all comfort continue to strengthen and comfort you and cause His face to shine on you. Love you much!♥️
Greetings,
It’s Wednesday night and I just found out about your Mother’s passing.
She was beautiful inside and out.
I LOVED her boldness and her style.
Loved to look at her and listen to her talk. She was sooo real, spirited and special. You have my heartfelt condolences for your great loss.❤️
Sincerely,
Janet Jones Preston🌹
My condolences to the family
To Lauren and family, There is no loss that can compare to losing a mother. You have my deepest sympathy. God is love and will continue to provide you with the strength you need to continue on. She will always be there for and with you!
You know ‘Momma Ruthie’ loves you!