Fern Etta Williams

Fern Grubbs Williams, 83, of Topeka, passed away Monday, December 14, 2020.

She was born March 2, 1937, in Topeka, KS the daughter of Andrew and Leanna (Mayden) Grubbs. She attended Topeka Public Schools. Mrs. Williams was self-taught in many areas. Some of which were teaching herself typing, sign language and the electric keyboard.

Fern married James Williams June 20, 1962. He preceded her in death. Survivors include three sons, Lawrence O. (Janie) Grubbs, Senior, Joseph (Robin) Williams, and Brian Dean (Krista)Williams and two sisters, Mary Grubbs Ware and Helen Grubbs German. She is also survived by 12 grandchildren: Tina Shorter(Robert), Nicole McGregor(Matthew), Angie Francios (Dwyane) April Grubbs, Lauren Williams(Bryan), Sherece Williams (Deceased), Lawrence Grubbs Jr., Steven Williams(Dee Dee), Natalee Coleman, Nicole Williams. Adam Benton, Julie Lang (Bob); 17 great grandchildren: Kendrick Shorter, Jovan Inyard, Aleigha Green, Torian Williams, Evanka Williams, Trinity Shorter, Dennis Francois, Kierra Moore, Lawrence Grubbs III, Ellla McGregor, Sasha McGregor, Jolivia Grubbs, Bryce Grubbs, Aiden Grubbs, Aleah Benton, Jackson Lang, Haylea Lang, Dezi Lang; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, church family and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, a son, Dennis C. Grubbs, her daughter-in-law, Victoria Grubbs, and several siblings.

Mrs. Williams worked as an Licensed Practical Nurse at the United Methodist Home 28 years.

She served as the Church Mother of Jackson Memorial Church of God In Christ under the leadership of Bishop Milton Jackson, Senior. She was a member there for over 60 years. Bishop Jackson, Senior passed away in 2016. She then began attending Abundance of Life Cathedral of Praise which is lead by Bishop Milton Jackson, Junior.

She loved her church. Fern had attended the Menninger Bible Class seven times.

She had traveled extensively and especially enjoyed her trips with the church.

She enjoyed organizing Black History education and recognition activities. She was recognized in the Topeka Capitol Journal for her multicultural history programs. These began in 2008 and continued annually during the second week of February over twelve years.

Fern was a giver and enjoyed cooking. She shared this through cooking for the residents at First Apartments, especially during the holidays. She also supported Meals on Wheels.

Her greatest love was her family. She appreciated every opportunity that allowed them to be together.
FERN IS GREATLY LOVED AND WILL BE MISSED!

The family will receive friends from 2:00 pm until 7:00 pm Thursday December 17, 2020 at Penwell-Gabel Cremations, Funerals and Receptions. The family is asking those who attend to wear masks and adhere to social distancing practices.

A Graveside Service will be 1:00 pm., Friday, December 18, 2020 at the Memorial Park Cemetery, 3616 SW Sixth Avenue.

The private funeral service will be recorded and uploaded to her obituary page after the services, please check back.

To leave a message for the family online, please visit the guestbook below.