Obituary of Gloria W. Williams

Gloria W. Williams, age 86 of Bethany CT, beloved wife of the late Hubert "Bill" Lee Andrew Williams, Sr. died peacefully in her sleep on February 12, 2020. Born in New York City on June 16, 1933. She was the daughter of the late Herbert Whiteman and Catherine Caton Whiteman. Mrs. Williams was raised in New York City. She studied at Tennessee State University, and received her BS in chemistry from North Carolina Central University. After completing her BS in chemistry, she attended Columbia University to work on her Master's Degree. She worked as an Analytical Chemist and in Research and Development for Endo Laboratories, Union Carbide, Abbott Laboratories, Chesebrough-Ponds, Inc. and Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceutical for over 25 years, until the time of her retirement in 1996. She was recruited by Bayer Pharmaceuticals for a two year assignment in 1998. Mrs. Williams was a talented pianist, violinist and world traveler. She enjoyed keeping her mind sharp playing scrabble, pinochle, spades and was a master at solitaire on the computer. Her zest for politics and interest in community affairs compelled her to volunteer at the voting polls for the Town of Bethany for many years. She was an advocate and regularly volunteered at the Habitat for Humanity. She was always willing to help the less fortunate and put her skills into action. Mrs. Williams was an active member of St. Lukes Episcopal Church where she attended guild meetings and was involved in several clubs and groups. She is survived by her devoted children, Hubert "Bill" Lee Andrew Williams, Jr. of CT, Yolanda Williams Foster of PA; step-children, Terry Williams Turner of NC, Valerie Williams Howze of NC; a sister, Dorothy Gerald of MD; cherished grandson Malcolm Alexander Foster of PA; step-grandchildren, Kevin McAdoo of NC, Corey Turner of AZ, Katina Turner of MA and Billy D. Williams of NC; as well as several nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband of 25 years, she was predeceased by brothers, Samuel and Herbert Whiteman, Jr.; sister, Lena Sylvester; stepson, Larry Williams; and grandson, William James Foster. A Memorial Service in celebration of her life will be announced at a later date. The Wakelee Memorial Funeral Home, 167 Wakelee Avenue, Ansonia is in care of arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.wakeleememorial.com