Shirley Joy Williams

Shirley Joy Payne Williams Obituary Shirley Joy Payne Williams, beloved wife, mother, sister, aunt, and friend, was born in Tulsa, OK, on April 20, 1935. She passed away peacefully on December 1, 2024, at her home, surrounded by family and her devoted caregivers. Shirley lived a life full of warmth, generosity, and grace, touching the hearts of everyone she met. She grew up in Collinsville, Oklahoma, where she graduated from Collinsville High School, forming lifelong friendships along the way. Shirley was preceded in death by her loving husband of 59 years, Bruce Williams, as well as her five brothers: Bill, Allan, Donald, Marvin, and Roger Payne, and her two sisters: Milly Cart and Kathlyn Franks. She leaves behind her son, Kent Edwin Williams (Joe Cummings), her cherished sister Brenda Payne James, sister-in-law Wanda Payne (Allan), brother-in-law Richard King (Neva), and a large extended family of nieces, nephews, and treasured friends including Bob and Kathy Harper. Shirley's unwavering love and devotion to her nieces, Julie Carter and Jeanne Moyer, made her their honorary grandmother, a role she embraced wholeheartedly. Shirley was a longtime member of University United Methodist Church, where she found community and spiritual fulfillment. She attended the Joy of Living Bible Study for over 30 years, nurturing her faith and building enduring relationships. She was deeply committed to giving back and served on the Board of the Women's Association of Tulsa Boys' Home for 30 years. As an inaugural member of the TBH Legacy Society, Shirley dedicated her time, talent, and resources to helping children in need, embodying the spirit of compassion and service. She was also active, along with her husband Bruce, in the Military Officers Association, supporting her community and country. Shirley began her professional career as an executive secretary at Jones & Laughlin Steel Company after graduating from high school. Later, she worked for an independent real estate developer and then transitioned into the oil and gas industry, which brought her exciting opportunities and introduced her to incredible people, including a lasting friendship with the Duffield family. Her career was marked by her dedication, sharp intellect, and unwavering professionalism. Shirley and Bruce loved exploring the world together, traveling throughout the United States, Europe, and Canada. They cherished their time with friends in the Nifty Fifties group from Collinsville High School, the Status Club, and the Mabrey Bank Horizons Club. One of their greatest joys was spending time at their lake house on Grand Lake, where they created countless family memories-laughter-filled gatherings, peaceful mornings on the water, and time spent with loved ones that will forever be remembered. The family is immensely grateful for the support and care provided by Millennium Healthcare, Home Instead, Paula Hutchinson, and the wonderful individuals who showed such kindness to Shirley in her final year. Their dedication and compassion were a true blessing to Shirley and her family. A private family graveside service will be held, followed by a memorial celebration of Shirley's life at University United Methodist Church on December 4, 2024 at 11:30 a.m., 2915 E. 5th St. Friends and family are invited to gather to share stories, honor her memory, and celebrate the wonderful woman she was. Visitation will take place at Moore's Southlawn on December 3rd, from 4-6 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Tulsa Boys' Home or University United Methodist Church, in honor of Shirley's lifelong commitment to helping others. "Her kindness, warmth, and unwavering faith touched the lives of everyone who knew her. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten."

Shirley Joy Williams

April 20, 1935 - December 1, 2024