Blanche Lois Williams

Blanche Lois Williams passed away peacefully at Bellevue Quality Care on Sunday, September 8. Blanche was born November 08, 1923 in Emmett, Idaho. She was the third in a family of five daughters and one son born to John and Rosa Bane. Her Husband Gene R. Williams preceded her in death in 2002. They were the parents of Michael Williams, Karen Knight, Christine Jackson, G. Roger Williams and Kenneth Williams. They have 24 grandchildren, 3 of whom preceded them in death, and 45 great grandchildren, one of whom preceded them in death.

Blanche grew up in the Star and Boise areas of Idaho but after she married Gene lived in many places from New York to Colorado, Florida to California, Oregon and Arizona. Most of their time was spent in the Northwest, specifically Shoreline, Bothell and for recent years, Bellevue, Washington.

Blanche was very active serving in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints wherever she lived. She served as president of the Relief Society ten times over the years as well as many other positions of responsibility. Blanche was a volunteer worker for 25 years at the Seattle LDS temple, from the time it opened until her Parkinson's made it so that she was no longer able to.

Blanche took civic duties seriously as well. She was active in her political caucuses, wrote letters to and donated to politicians and worthy causes. Her Christlike life was also exhibited when she sponsored Cambodian refugees and helped them establish themselves in the U.S.

Blanche loved gardening, was an excellent cook and seamstress. With her many moves, she made friends all over the country. But her favorite times were spent with family. Her love, guidance and humble, selfless service was inspirational and is a legacy that will live on through her posterity.