Sheila "Nanny" Ann Williams

We gather here today to celebrate the life of a remarkable woman—Shelia—a woman whose legacy is woven through love and laughter, with which she lived her life. Shelia was born on March 31, 1946, in Blakely, Georgia. Though her roots began in that small Southern town, her journey carried her to Florida, where she would build not just a life, but a legacy of compassion, resilience, and community. Shelia had a passion for people and a heart full of music. She poured both into her work and her relationships. For many years, she owned and operated her own bar—a place that wasn’t just about business, but about bringing people together. It was filled with the sound of clinking glasses, heartfelt conversations, warm friendships, and the unmistakable joy of karaoke—her favorite pastime. Whether you knew her well or had just met her, Shelia had a way of making you feel welcome, like you belonged. Later in life, Shelia continued to give of herself, serving her community as a devoted bus aide in Hillsborough County. Her days were spent watching over children, keeping them safe, and greeting them each morning with her signature warmth. She wasn’t just a helper—she was a constant, loving presence in the lives of the kids she cared for. Her kindness touched countless young lives, and her dedication never went unnoticed. But if you asked Shelia what mattered most in her life, the answer would come quickly and without hesitation: her family. Her “babies,” as she lovingly called them, were her world. Her love for them was fierce, unwavering, and endless. She lived for her family—every choice she made, every sacrifice, every joyful moment, was rooted in that love. Shelia’s home was always open, her table always had room for one more, and her heart never ran out of space. She lived a life of quiet strength and steadfast devotion. Her loyalty was deep, her spirit joyful, and her presence comforting. She loved freely, gave generously, and laughed often. Those who knew her will remember her not just for what she did, but for who she was—a woman who could light up a room with her smile and make you feel at home with just a word. Though her absence leaves an ache in our hearts, her memory will continue to guide us. Her laughter will echo in our stories, her love will remain in our hearts, and her strength will inspire us to live as fully and generously as she did. Shelia will be deeply missed, but she will never be forgotten. Her life was a gift to all who knew her—and that gift will live on in each of us.

Shelia is preceded in death by her husband, Paul Williams; her parents, Bernie and Ester Qualls; her brother, Stanley Qualls; her daughter, Pamela Burgess; and her son, William “Billy” Lewis. She is survived by her daughter, Cathy Guilliams; her son, Michael “Mike” Lewis (Cortney); and her siblings: Wanda Meals (Roy), Wayne Qualls, Gloria Lamb (Bobby), and Linda Joyce Lane.She also leaves behind nine grandchildren—DJ, Mary, Nicole, Andrew, Haley, Kayla, Kindyl, Brandon, and Parker—fourteen great-grandchildren, one great-great-granddaughter, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks for the love, prayers, and support during this time of loss.

A visitation for Sheila will be held Monday, August 18, 2025 from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at Hillsboro Memorial Funeral Home, 2323 West Brandon Blvd, Brandon, FL 33511, followed by a funeral service at10:00 AM. Interment will follow at Hillsboro Memorial Gardens.