Penelope Holstun Williams

Penelope “Penny” Williams, 83, passed away peacefully in her Decatur home on Thursday, May 5th, in the loving care of her family and friends. Penny is succeeded by her two sons, six grandchildren, and four great grandchildren. A kind, loving, and jovial woman, Penny will be missed and celebrated by all who had the blessing of knowing her.

Penny knew the things she loved in life well and held them forever close. She married her soulmate, Britain Williams III, at seventeen, and they devoted their lives together to raising a family, seeing the world, and the Georgia Bulldogs. Penny and Brit hardly missed a UGA football game or gymnastics meet and still managed to see all 50 states in the U.S. and many countries abroad. Penny’s love for her husband and family, however, came first and foremost; Penny and Brit were inseparable, and loved nothing more than to spend time with their family and to celebrate their accomplishments. Penny also loved the beach, a good glass of Chardonnay, and collecting Christmas ornaments and cookie jars, but what she valued most otherwise were her relationships with her friends and members of her community.

Professionally, Penny dedicated her career to civil service. She worked over 30 years as administrative staff for the University of Georgia and would also support the governor’s office at the Georgia State Capitol during periods of redistricting. Penny made connections and friends wherever she went, but she was also a tireless worker and mother. Penny would often need to work late into the night at the Capitol, yet she would still be present in the morning to raise her children, support her family, and start her workday anew. In her retirement, Penny committed much of her time to the Methodist church and supporting women’s advocacy groups.

Anyone who had the pleasure of knowing Penny knew her for her hospitality and wit; she was active in her local communities and touched the hearts of all she met with her warm and welcoming nature. As she was raised a proper southern woman, Penny always knew the correct and mannerly way to plan, attend, or host events, and would always be a perfect and welcoming hostess. Penny knew no prejudices and would extend her love and kindness to all that were open to it. Penny lived a life of love, peace, and understanding; at the end she had no regrets, and instead rejoiced in the wholesome life that she lived and the beautiful family that she raised.

Penny always wished for the world to be kind and loving and lived as an example for how we should treat our neighbors, strangers, and transgressors alike. Penny will be forever celebrated in our actions of kindness, and her remembrance will spread in our love.

A memorial service for Penelope will be held Thursday, May 12, 2022 from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Floral Hills Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 3150 Lawrenceville Highway, Tucker, GA 30084.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.floralhillsfuneral.com for the Williams family.