Velma Lee Williams

Velma Lee (Brown) Williams was born on January 27, 1943, and peacefully transitioned  on January 27, 2026. She lived a full, fearless, and purpose-driven life, one marked by  strength, independence, and an unshakable will.  

Velma was a beloved wife, daughter, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother. She was the foundation of her family and a guiding force  whose presence will be deeply missed and forever remembered. From an early age, Velma was tenacious and determined. She took life by the horns  and never waited for permission to claim her space in the world. She loved and  protected her children. A true trailblazer, she became the first Black woman to serve as  Head Bank Teller in Holyoke, Massachusetts, breaking barriers with confidence and  excellence. Never one to be confined by expectations. 

Velma later drove 18-wheeler  trucks, Managed restaurants and went on to serve as a District Manager for  convenience stores in both Columbia and Winnsboro, South Carolina.  Velma was fearless. She embraced travel, lived in different places, and welcomed   change with courage. Her life was a testament to resilience, adaptability, and self-belief.  She will be remembered for her strength, her cakes and pies, her sharp wit, her  unforgettable comebacks, and the memorable phrases that still echo in the hearts of  those who loved her. Velma had a way of telling the truth—with humor, clarity, and authority—and you always knew where you stood with her.  

Velma is survived by her loving children:  Anthony Brown of Springfield, Massachusetts;  Serena Brown of Columbia, South Carolina;  Zina Brown of Ridgeway, South Carolina;  Darien Brown of Columbia, South Carolina;  and William C. Brown of Columbia, South Carolina;  along with 18 grandchildren, 60 great-grandchildren, 7 great-great-grandchildren,  extended family, and friends who cherished her deeply.