Varnell Williamson

Varnell Banks Williamson was born on March 30, 1936 in Blue Springs, Mississippi, the daughter of Dewitt and Sally Banks. She attended the Union County Training School in New Albany, Mississippi, graduating in 1955. After graduation, Varnell relocated to Detroit, Michigan before moving to Indianapolis.

Varnell professed a hope in Christ at an early age and was a member of Red Hill Missionary Baptist Church. After relocating to Indianapolis, she became a member of New Hope Missionary Baptist Church.

On July 16, 1960, she was united in Holy Matrimony to E.W. Williamson; to this union four children were born. Varnell was employed for several years, eventually retiring from Western Electric Telephone Company.

Varnell will always be remembered for her uplifting spirit, sense of humor, beautiful smile and being a "hospitality queen". Her favorite scripture was Psalm 91 and she would often share it with others. She had the "gift of gab" and spending time with family and friends was what she most enjoyed. Varnell was affectionately known as "Mema" to most people.

On Thursday, April 30, 2020, at the age of 84 years, Varnell left her earthly home to be with the Lord.

Varnell is preceded in death by her husband, E.W. Williamson, daughter, Daphne Machea Williamson, two brothers, Dewitt Banks Jr., LeRoy Banks and a dear cousin, Greenella McWhorter-Lewis.

She leaves to cherish her memory, sons, Rodney and Tracy (Marsha) Williamson; daughter, Shirley (Alonzo) Grisby; seven grandchildren, Renise, DeForest, Logan, Tracy II, Alonzo II, Joseph and Elijah; five great grandchildren, Ron'Tel, Ryelle, Rylund, Rosario, Recio; brothers, Lee (Sarah) Banks, Anthony (Marilyn) Banks, dear friend and "sister" Barbara Vandermark, "daughter" Teresa Scruggs; a host of other relatives, friends, and Church family.

In lieu of floers, please submit a donation to New Hope Missionary Baptist Church, 2025 Winter Avenue, Indianapolis, Indiana, 46218. Thank you.