Mrs. Aileen D. Williams

Aileen Daisy Williams was born on July 26,1927 to the union of Allen and Robbie Holley. The oldest of two children (her brother Howard preceded her in death), Aileen was born in LaFollette, Tennessee where she spent most of her childhood. Aileen moved to Detroit, Michigan and married Fred James. To that union a daughter, Cynthia (deceased) was born. Cynthia and Aileen were very close and were often mistaken for sisters! Aileen completed her education through Detroit Public Schools and went on to work as an Electrocardiogram Technician for Metropolitan Hospital. It was at Metropolitan Hospital that Aileen met a handsome man named Jay Tee Williams. Story has is it that Jay was actually visiting the hospital to meet another lady for a blind date, he saw Aileen and the rest is history! Jay, his beautiful little girl, Tracey, Aileen and her daughter, Cynthia became a family in 1964. In 1966 Jay and Aileen's family was completed with the birth of their daughter Robin. As the granddaughter of a Baptist minister who baptized her at an early age, Aileen grew up knowing the Lord and worship was a natural part of her everyday life. Every morning, you could find her listening to Martha Jean the Queen or blasting James Cleveland in the kitchen. She joined St. Stephen A.M.E. Church under the pastorate of Reverend Martin Luther Simmons and was a faithful member for 45 years. Aileen served on the Adult Usher Board, Missionary Society, and the Women's Day Committee until her health prevented her from attending church regularly. Aileen also worked tirelessly with the March of Dimes going door to door every year to help raise money for the organization. She and Jay both were avid bowlers belonging to at least 3 leagues apiece. What most people remember about Aileen is her cooking and her style. Aileen could bake a cake that would make you cry, fry chicken that would make you sing, greens that tasted like heaven and we won't even talk about the black eye peas! Her Christmas dinners and Fourth of July cookouts are legendary. Everyone was welcomed at her table whether you were family or not. Blue jeans and sweatpants were never a part of her wardrobe. Whether she was simply going to the store or attending an elegant affair, her appearance was always impeccable. Aileen's makeup was tastefully applied and every outfit was accessorized. "Bad Hair Days" were not a part of her vocabulary! Her favorite color was yellow which is fitting as her personality was bright and vibrant. Aileen had a smile that would light up a room. She didn't crack jokes like Jay does but she did have a wonderful sense of humor. Aileen left a legacy of elegance, graciousness, love, and devotion to first her husband, her family and her community. God knew it was time for her to rest and so on May 7, 2013, He gave her leave to come home and be whole again.

Mrs. Aileen D. Williams

July 26, 1927 - May 7, 2013