Ana Iris Williams

Ana Iris Williams (née Basabe), of Irmo, South Carolina, passed away on January 12, 2025, at the age of 84.

Ana was born on November 28, 1941, in Ponce, Puerto Rico, to Ismael and Isabel Basabe. Over the course of her life, she built a family rooted in faith, resilience, and enduring connection.

She was married to the loving and wonderful Ruel M. Williams for 30 years before his death in 1990. Later, she found love and laughter again with Robert Cade, who remained a devoted presence in her life and in her family's lives.

She held many loving titles: Ma, Abuela, Titi, and Aunt Ana.

Ana was the mother of Elizabeth A. Shannon, Darlene A. Young, Charmaine A. Williams, and Jeffrey M. Williams. She was the mother-in-law of Gilbert Young and Sonya Williams.

She was Abuela to Jenica Richards, Sasha Munson, Emmanuel Richards, Marialena Santana, Alejandro Shannon, Ana Starke, Ruel Williams- Morgan, and Dominic Williams, as well as to her 14 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.

She was Titi to her niece, Zenaida Wade, and her nephews, Justin Ramirez and Anthony Ramirez. And Aunt Ana to many other extended nieces and nephews.

Ana deeply cherished her Hispanic heritage. She loved speaking Spanish, listening to music, and dancing the merengue. An adventurous spirit, she enjoyed trying foods from around the world and was known for her exceptional cooking. Ana also loved traveling, embracing every opportunity to explore new places.

At home, Ana found joy in doing puzzles, playing card games, and watching movies, game shows, and reality television. Fashion was another lifelong passion. She worked as a ladies' wear consultant for Macy’s in New York City and was always impeccably dressed, whether attending church services or formal evening events. Ana loved the ocean, and together with her beloved late husband, instilled that same love in their children.

Faith was a guiding force throughout her life. Ana was a devoted member of Second Calvary Baptist Church in Columbia, South Carolina, where her beliefs shaped her values and her devotion to family.

Her family and friends loved her, are thankful for her, and will miss her deeply.

Ana Williams was preceded in death by her husband, Ruel M. Williams; her son, Jeffrey M. Williams; her parents, Ismael and Isabel Basabe; and her sister, Zenaida Ramirez.

A celebration of Ana's life will be held at a later date and time.