Wendy Williams

Wendy J. Williams brilliant writer, critic, teacher, playwright, hilarious story teller, and most importantly, Esme's adored mother, died on January 10, 2012 after doing everything possible to avoid it.

Born April 24, 1958 in Kansas City, MO, she was raised in Seattle and began her world travels, solo, at age 16. After three years of exploring London, Europe and the Middle East, she studied for two years at St. Aldate's College in Oxford. Returning to the states, she earned her BA from the Edward R. Murrow School of Journalism at Washington State University.

In 1984 she moved to Eureka and later earned a teaching credential and MFA in Dramatic Writing, from Humboldt State University. She performed in more than 25 local theater productions, predominantly with P.A.C.T. Her original plays "Motherhood: Made in China," "Lotus Lessons," and "Range of Light" have been performed in Humboldt County and Oregon.

Freelance writer/media critic for 30 years, she was published by the Boston Herald, Salon, Ms, UPI International, to name a few. She worked for 17 years as a feature editor/writer at Fortuna Communications, going on many Hollywood press junkets to interview celebrities. 15 years ago she traveled to China to bring home Esme, the love of her life.

Tenacious beyond measure, darkly funny and irreverent, everyone remembers their first encounter with Wendy. Her sharp mind and curiosity drove her until the end, devouring documentaries and biographies while undergoing all available cancer treatments.

She is survived by her daughter Esme, family in Seattle, Tampa and Austin, and friends all over the world. She was preceded in death by her mother Jean Williams.

A gathering in her honor will be held near her birthday, details to be announced.

Please sign the guest book at www.Times-Standard.com, click obits.

Arrangements under the direction of Pierce Mortuary, Eureka, CA.