Betty Jean Mathis Williams was born October 25, 1933, in Albany, Georgia to the late Bosco and Mattie Mathis.  She was raised in a loving home and was taught to love the Lord early in life.  Betty was a praying woman, she communed with the Lord daily, and she didn't mind spreading the Word of God wherever she went.  Oftentimes in her daily walk, she could be heard sharing her favorite saying, "I know who I am, I know who I serve, and I know where I'm going."  She stayed on the battlefield until her demise.

On November 1, 1953, she was united in marriage to the love of her life,  Elijah Williams, Sr.  Their union endured through the years and they were blessed with nine wonderful children.  Ms. Betty, as she was affectionately called by many, was domestic at heart—unwavering in her dedication to foster a Christian home filled with love, joy, and strong values.  Sharing time with family was paramount in her life.  Her diligence in caring for her husband and children was the personification of a Proverbs 31 Woman, "A wife of noble character whose worth was far above rubies.  Her husband had full confidence in her and lacked for nothing.  She did him good all the days of his life.  Her children rose up and called her blessed."

Devoted wife, loving mother and grandmother, caring sister,  nurturing aunt, and constant friend, Ms. Betty lived a rich and rewarding life.  She had a kind heart, a very generous spirit, and took great pride in using her God-given talents to help others.  The words penned by the songwriter, "If I can help somebody as I travel along…...then my living shall not be in vain," truly exemplifies her life.  To the hungry, she offered food; to the sick, she offered compassion; to the broken hearted, she offered consolation, and to the lost, she offered hope and guidance.  In her leisure, she enjoyed gardening and took great pride in growing beautiful flowers.

On Monday, March 25, 2019, Ms. Betty was called from labor to reward.  In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her beloved husband, Elijah Williams, Sr.; her daughter, Delijah Duvall; and her sister, Geraldine Thornton.

Loving memories and her legacy of love will forever be cherished by her children, Tony (Charlie) Williams, Johnny (Vickie) Williams, Brenda (Henry) Solomon, Vickie Thomas, Elijah Williams, Jr., Cornelius (Diane) Williams, Gretta Harris, Grindal Laster and Etta Williams; 16 grandchildren, 36 great grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren; two sisters, Maggie Riggins of Albany, GA and Rena Bentley of Panama City, FL; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends.