Anna Williams was born on September 21, 1931, in Cuba, Alabama, to Robert D. Bell and Ora Scott. From an early age, Anna displayed the creativity, strength, and spirited independence that would shape her remarkable life. She often credited her imaginative soul to her father, R.D. Bell, whose influence nurtured her artistic gifts and love for storytelling.

As a young girl, Anna rode horseback beside her father, learning the value of hard work and resilience. During her early years at Hickory Hill School, she was already a natural creator – writing and starring in a play titled The 3 Little Rabbits. Her early work ethic blossomed as she took a job at a local café in Cuba, where she made history as the first employee to receive a paid vacation.

With fierce determination and a deep love for her family, Anna later made the courageous decision to move north to Akron, Ohio, in search of greater opportunities, where she met Arthur Dell Williams. There, she became the head cook at the Western Drive-In, known not only for her delicious meals but also for the warmth she brought to every kitchen she graced.

In her later years, Anna found joy in the simple and beautiful things – spending cherished time with her children and grandchildren, traveling back to Alabama, cooking soulful meals, treasure-hunting in thrift stores, playing cards, and indulging in mystery shows on the ID channel. Her laughter, sharp wit, and unmatched style filled every room she entered.

Anna was also a woman of deep faith. She became a member of Cascade Faith Ministries, where she served with honor as Missions Coordinator and love as one of the cherished Mothers of the Church.

Anna Williams leaves behind a legacy of love, creativity, and strength that lives on through her family and all who were blessed to know her. Her life was a vibrant tapestry woven with devotion, grace, humor, and truth – and it will continue to inspire generations to come.

Preceded in death by her parents Robert and Ora Bell; husband Arthur Dell Williams; son Lynden Bell; sisters Rosie L. Barron, Climmie Crawford, Shirley Horne, Winnie Alexander, Fannie Mae Hull; and brothers Arthur L. Bell, Willie James Bell, John B. Bell, and R.T. Bell.

She leaves to carry on her legacy: Her beloved children – T.L. Bell and Charles E. Bell of Cuba, AL; Shirley Arrington of Stow, OH; Edwina Bell of Oakridge, TN; Mary Davidson, Donny (Shalathia) Williams, and Lenora Long, all of Akron, OH.

Adoptive daughter – Carolyn Mitchell of Key Largo, FL.

Cherished siblings – Lovonia Brooks and Robert Bell of Akron, OH; Wilma Bell and Dessie (Robert) Thomas of Cuba, AL.

Sister-in-law – Bessie Jordan of Akron, OH.

Special caregiver – Belinda Griggs.

She is also lovingly remembered by a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and long-time friends whose lives she touched deeply.

The family of Anna Williams extends our heartfelt thanks to NoorHealth and Summa Health System for their compassionate care of our beloved mother and grandmother. We are especially grateful to the dedicated medical professionals at Hickory Ridge Nursing and Rehab Center for their loving support and attentive care during her final days.