Eugenia Williams

Eugenia Marie Williams (née Shockley), affectionately called Gina, was born on September 1, 1938, in Media, Pennsylvania, to loving parents Eugene and Helen Shockley. She departed this life on May 15, 2025. She was the youngest of five siblings and was cherished by her family from the day she was born. Eugenia attended Chester Upland Schools and graduated from Chester High School, marking the beginning of a life filled with love, faith, and joy.

Eugenia’s journey of motherhood began with the birth of her first child, Stanley Shockley. In 1957, her life took a delightful turn when she met and married James B. Williams. From this blessed union, three children were born: James, Jeffery, and Adriene. Their family was a testament to the strength of their love and dedication.

A devout woman of faith, Eugenia loved the Lord deeply and was a praying woman. She was a dedicated member of the First Pentecostal Church of Chester, where she found joy in singing in the choir and actively participating in church activities for many years. Even as she faced health challenges in her later years and couldn’t attend regularly, her faith remained steadfast and her spirit unyielding.

Eugenia had an infectious sense of humor and was known for her love of laughter and her ability to bring joy to those around her. She cherished the moments spent joking and laughing with her grandchildren, creating memories that will be treasured forever.

Eugenia found delight in life’s simple pleasures. She enjoyed talking on the phone, watching television, reading—especially the Bible—drawing, and coloring. She had a particular fondness for sweets, and her enjoyment of food brought her great pleasure. She also loved shopping and clothes; many will remember how “sharp” and “stylish” she was. Even in her 80s, she was meticulous about her appearance.

Throughout her life, Eugenia worked at various places, including Scott Paper and the Chester Upland School District, where she eventually retired. Her work ethic and dedication were evident in all that she did, and she left a lasting impact on those she worked with, many of whom remained friends throughout the years.

Eugenia was predeceased by her parents, Eugene and Helen Shockley; her siblings, Stanley Bruce, Delores Scarlett, Beatrice Howard, and Ernestine Johnson; her husband, James B. Williams; her son, Jeffery Williams; and her grandson, Karrington Corbin.

She is survived by her sons Stanley Shockley (Cynthia) and James E. Williams; her daughter, Adriene Irving and husband, Michael, who was Eugenia’s loving caretaker; grandchildren Kinsley Corbin, Marcellus Irving (Deanna), and Gabrielle Irving-Johnson (Nazeeh); great grandchildren Cameron and Cooper; special niece Carol Ann Stewart, and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins and very special friends.

Eugenia Marie Williams was loved by many and will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her boundless love for her family, and her joyful spirit. She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and faith that will continue to inspire all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished in our hearts.

Rest in peace, dear Eugenia. Your light will shine brightly in our memories forever.