MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A longtime community organizer and advocate for the homeless has died.
For more than 30 years, Shirley Williams helped thousands of Memphians who needed it the most by organizing an annual “Thanksgiving Dinner for the Homeless and Hungry” at the Cook Convention Center.
Her family told WREG she passed away in her sleep Thursday, leaving those who knew and loved her the most in tears.
“It’s tears of joy, and it’s pain. It’s pain because I won’t be able to see her face-to-face anymore. It’s tears of joy because I know my auntie had a lot of medical problems. I know she’s not suffering anymore,” said Williams’ niece, Nzinga Kearney.
Kearney said in the days leading up her to passing, Williams still worked to help the needy and came up with a plan to help strangers at her own funeral.
“She didn’t want flowers, she just wanted people to bring canned goods, blankets and coats for the homeless,” said Kearney.
But Williams’ dying wish comes with challenges.
Kearney said Williams suffered from many health issues over the years, with mounting medical bills. Her death leaves her family not only broken-hearted, but there’s also no money to pay for her homegoing service.
Kearney is hoping those touched by Williams’ service to Memphis over the years will help family members honor her.
“She needs the community this time,” said Kearney.
The family set up a GoFundMe account. If you like to help, click here.
