Mary Jo Williams

Mary Jo Williams (The Matriarch), affectionately known as "Cecil and Mama," was born July 1, 1944, and made Heaven her home on April 3, 2025.

Mary was a proud graduate of Second Ward High School in Charlotte, NC. After graduating, she began working in housekeeping and later moved to the position of chef at the First United Methodist Church, leveraging her impeccable cooking skills. She could have started her franchise with her delicious tuna salad alone.

Mary enjoyed all the phases of decorating. She spent numerous hours at the flea markets and attic sales. Aside from her retail hobbies, her most treasured time was spent with her children and grandchildren. Loving and teaching them life lessons. She gave so much of her time and talent, and they reciprocated that love in return.

Because of her five sons, she became an avid sports fan. Her favorite teams were the University of North Carolina basketball team and the Dallas Cowboys. Most of her bonding time was spent watching Westerns and Reality shows. She made time with each of her children individually. Music was massive during her era. She loved a little bit of all genres. One that stands out the most was "Purple Rain"!

Mary Jo was preceded in death by her mother, Connie Morgan. Six siblings: Ray, Betty, Johnny (Martha), James, Thomas, and June (Dorothy). One granddaughter, Shanice Williams.

Left to cherish the memories of her love are her six blessings: Larry “Big Daddy, Johnny "Bruh" (Melinda), Linda "Sister", Robin "Bookie" (Avalon), James’s "Pumpkin" (Charla), and Thomas "Pooh-Pooh", all of Charlotte, NC. She leaves a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. A special Lifelong Friend, Ms. Della Boswell. A host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends.