Kimberly Joy Williams, lovingly known as Nana, passed away unexpectedly on November 12, 2023, due to heart failure. She was 66 years old.

Nana found joy in educating her grandson, caring for every neighborhood stray cat, and sharing laughter with family and friends. Described as someone who marched to the beat of her own drum, she had a knack for telling her life story in five minutes to total strangers and passionately discussing the state of the world.

A devoted mother and grandmother, Kim's journey as a social worker, lobbyist, and child activist began out of love for her son, Shawn Williams. Witnessing Shawn's struggle with unequal access to education, she dedicated her life to advocating for change. One of her greatest achievements was developing a method to identify children with hidden disabilities, leading to the national identification system known as the Child Find Mandate. Her incredible contributions to our education system forever changed the lives of countless children.

Kim is survived by her children Nick Williams and Lacey Williams; stepdaughter Toni Williams-Lemberg; grandchildren Gavin Williams, Keegan Williams, Lionel Williams, Jaxson Greaves; her siblings Mel Smith, Mark Smith, Randy Smith, Kevin Smith, Cory Smith, and Rhonda Cutler; and many beloved aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Kim now joins her heavenly family, including her son Shawn Williams, father Raymond Smith, mother Zizi Bridges, and many more.

A Celebration of life is scheduled for 2 pm on November 26, 2023 at the home of her son.  

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