Ruthena Rogers Williams was born on October 28,1928

in Hemingway, South Carolina, to the late Josh and Flossie Gordon-Rogers. She was the youngest of four, whom preceded her in death: George Gordon, Harvey Rogers, and Jacqueline Rogers-Thompson.

She was raised and formally educated in Georgetown, County School System. She earned a cosmetology license from the family owned Gordon School of Cosmetology, in South Carolina. She professed Christ at an early age and joined Chavis A.M.E. Church in Hemingway, South Carolina. Her spiritual journey continued in Detroit, Michigan at Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church, where her membership exceeded 35 years of faithful service. Ruthena was a devoted member who served on the Mother's Board and an honorary member of the Usher Board. "Mother Williams" loved her church and had a special love and relationship her pastor and co-pastor.

She met the love of her life. Henry Williams, in 1946. They later professed their love through holy matrimony on February 21,1948. They later moved to Detroit and through this union, three children were born. Henry Williams preceded her in death.

Her life's work consisted of loving, empowering, motivating, and caring for all of God's children, whether they were blood related or not. Her love was demonstrated through action and caring for as many people as her heart would allot. She will be cherished in the hearts of all of her loved ones as "Ru-Ru", "Auntie", "Ma", "Granny", "Grandma Ruth", and a host of other endearing nicknames. She had an unusual hobby of loving to talk on the telephone. She always said, one of life's best inventions ever was call waiting and caller ID. Her home was one of much love. Everyone who visited was always greeted with open arms, encouraging words, and since she loved to bake, there was always a slice of cake or pie waiting for you if needed.

Ruthena departed from this life on Friday, May 30, 2008 in Detroit, Michigan at her home, surrounded by her loved ones.

Ruthena will be greatly missed by her family and friends, and leaves to cherish her memory: two sons. Henry Charles and Carl Jeffery; one daughter, Vertricia (Curtis) Perry; two granddaughters, LaShawn Renee (who effortlessly cared for her during her illness and served as her guardian angel) and Carmen Victoria; one daughter-in-law. Valeric Williams; one special cousin. Merle Ford of Charleston, South Carolina; one sister-in-law, Gladys Williams of Hemingway, South Carolina; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, godchildren and dearly loved friends. Ruthena also had three very special friends of over 50 years who were like sisters, Nora C. Jones, Odell Sligh and Ruth Durrah.