Elizabeth City, NC
On Wednesday, July 31, 2024, Sylvia Jackson Dawson Williams died after a lifetime spent exemplifying the teachings of St. Paul in Philippians to treat the needs of others as more important than our own.
Sylvia is survived by her husband, Thomas Wilson Williams, III; her son, Thomas Wilson Williams, IV; and many relatives and friends by whom she will be missed. She was predeceased by her parents, Louise Owens Jackson Dawson and William C. “Shootie” Dawson, Jr., and James W. “Pete” Jackson; and her sister, Betsy Brockett Dawson.
Sylvia graduated from Elizabeth City High School, St. Mary’s College, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She began the kindergarten program at Kitty Hawk Elementary School, where she continued to teach until her retirement. During these years, “Mrs. Williams,” and her alter ego, “Mrs. Pilliams,” touched the lives of generations of children and multitudes of staff members, whom she loved and who still reflect that love today. As a dedicated member of Christ Episcopal Church, Sylvia was mentored as a teenager by the legendary Miss Hattie Harney, who imprinted this benediction on all who passed through the Elizabeth City School System for decades and remains a fitting benediction to Sylvia’s life: “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in thy sight, Oh Lord, my strength, and my redeemer.”
A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, August 7, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at Old Hollywood Cemetery with the Rev. Daniel Cenci officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations be made in Sylvia’s name to Christ Episcopal Church, 200 S. McMorrine Street, Elizabeth City, NC 27909.
Twiford Funeral Homes, 405 E. Church Street, Elizabeth City, NC is assisting the Williams’ Family. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.TwifordFH.com.