Norma Joe Williams, native San Angeloan and longtime newswoman, died Feb. 1, 2013, at age 91. She was born Dec. 26, 1921, to Louis Kleitches and Dewey Miskimon Kleitches. Norma Joe and Douglas A. Williams were married in San Angelo on May 15, 1942. An honor graduate of San Angelo High School in 1938, she also graduated from San Angelo Business College. Difficult economic times prevented her from pursuing her liberal arts education at the University of Texas. She was employed by the San Angelo National Bank from 1939-1951 and spent the following 12 years as the stay-at-home mother of her two boys, and as a homemaker. In late 1963, she had the opportunity to fulfill a girlhood ambition of becoming a newspaper writer and reporter, covering various beats and winning a number of writing awards. She had many memories of these years, including the assignment of covering former President Johnson's funeral, where she became acquainted with legendary journalist Bill Moyers. For 10 years she was the Standard-Times editorial page editor, working with her beloved friends Kevin Barry and Jack Cowan. She retired in 1993, but continued to write a column for some years thereafter. A member of Sigma Delta Chi journalism fraternity, she served as president of the San Angelo Press Club. In 1974, she was named to Who's Who of American Women. She was a ruling elder of the Presbyterian Church. Having a quick and inquisitive mind, she was an avid reader, saying that her favorite exercise "was turning the pages of a good book." She formed deep and abiding friendships that lasted a lifetime, and was a journalistic mentor to many, touching their lives in profound ways. Mrs. Williams was preceded in death by her husband; and son Mark Douglas Williams. She is survived by her son, Todd Houston Williams of Austin, Texas; sisters Melba McCormick of San Angelo and Louise Johnson of Bronte; and nephew Simpson (Bud) Johnson of Bronte. Special thanks are given to caregivers Della Garcia, Anita Rivera and to the wonderful caring staff at the Bronte Nursing Home, with special gratitude to Mario and Phoebe. Graveside service will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 6, in Fairmont Cemetery with the Reverend Bill Proctor of First Presbyterian Church officiating. Memorial gifts may be made to the Williams House of San Angelo, (P.O. Box 3805 San Angelo, Texas 76902) founded by her late husband, or to the First Presbyterian Church of San Angelo. Family and friends may sign the online register book at www.johnsons-funeralhome.com.
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