Avis Arline Williams

Avis Arline Phifer Williams passed away on December 16, 2025, at the age of 99. Arline entered this world on the morning of January 9, 1926, in Marshville, North Carolina. Born during a fierce morning blizzard, she was delivered by a midwife who braved the storm to arrive by horse and buggy. That resilient spirit defined the rest of her life.

Arline grew up in Union County where she was a standout student as well as being voted both "Most Athletic" and "Most Popular" female during her senior year of high school. After graduation, she answered the call of duty during World War II. She completed Nurse Cadet training at Mercer Hospital in Charlotte and then served in hospitals in Boston, Massachusetts. She was a trailblazer in her local community, serving as one of the very first female members of the Monroe Police Department.

On July 2, 1945, she married the love of her life, Thurmond J. Williams. The couple shared a deep passion for dance that spanned decades. Together, they traveled across the country to attend events, but Arline shone particularly bright on her own, winning numerous first-place awards in clogging competitions. Her talent and dedication were formally recognized when she was inducted into America’s Clogging Hall of Fame.

Arline believed in staying active and sharing her joy with others. She taught dance and arts and crafts at the Monroe Ellen Fitzgerald Senior Center for five decades, only retiring as an instructor at the impressive age of 90.

She was an active member of Shiloh Baptist Church for over 50 years and loved her Sunday school class and church family.

She is survived by her brother Heath Phifer, her three children: Diana Wells (Dennis), Dan Williams (Ronnie), and Abe Williams; her grandchildren: Jason Williams (Roseane), Allison Neason (Dan), and Ronnie Scheetz; and her beloved great-grandchildren: Katie Neason, Ansley Neason, Hailey Scheetz, Charlize Williams, and Natalie Williams. She is also survived by numerous beloved nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life is being planned for January 9, 2026, with details to follow.

McEwen Funeral Home of Monroe is honored to serve the family of Avis Arline Phifer.