Wanda Ellon Williams

May 20, 1941 - February 19, 2026

Wanda Ellon (Riddle) Williams was born in Brinkley, Arkansas and moved to California when she was one month old with her mom and family. She grew up in the rural community of Porterville, CA where she met and married the the love of her life, James Williams, at 18 years old. They enjoyed 66 years together. They moved around picking fruit and cotton until they settled down in San Lorenzo, CA. where they raised three children, Keith, Brian, and Marilene (Missy) on Via Mirabel. All the kids in the neighborhood loved her. James worked very hard, so she could stay at home to support their children, which she did with so much Love. She did work an occasional job here and there, including being a cake decorator for a few years after the kids were grown. She spoiled her granddaughters as much as she could. She loved making them clothes and Christmas pajamas when they were little, and always supported their endeavors. She was a very compassionate person who was always there for friends, family and the community, including making sundresses for girls in Africa. Her creativity showed in her needlework, sewing, and her ultimate love of quilting.

She is survived by her husband, James; her daughter, Marilene (husband Jeff); granddaughters, Samantha and Rylie; siblings DL (late wife Loretta), and Loretta husband Bay); daughter-in-law, Paulette. She was welcomed into heaven by her beloved sons, Keith and Brian and parents, Maggie and Woody; Wesley and Lorraine.

We will miss your sweet smile and disposition. I will leave you with her favorite quote from the cartoon Charlie Brown - “Oh, Good Grief!”

Funeral Services: Wednesday, February 25, 2026

Grissom’s Chapel & Mortuary

267 E. Lewelling Blvd. San Lorenzo, CA 94580

Lone Tree Cemetary 24591 Fairview Ave. Hayward, CA 94542

RECEPTION TO FOLLOW