Verdelle Williams

Verdelle Owens affectionately known as Auntie V, Ms. V, and lovingly called Benelle by her daughter Monique, was born on October 29, 1939, in Anderson, South Carolina, to Jennie Mae Owens and William Owens. She lived a full, vibrant life — boldly, honestly, and always on her own terms. As a young adult, Verdelle moved to New York in pursuit of greater opportunities and a better life. She attended Westside High School in Anderson, South Carolina, and later continued her education at the College for Human Services in New York. Verdelle married Andrew Williams, and from that union one daughter was born, Andress Monique Williams. She was also the proud mother of Akeatha Owens from a previous relationship and embraced Michael Scott as a beloved bonus son. Family was the foundation of her life, and her love extended far beyond titles or labels. Verdelle dedicated many years of service with the United Postal service and The Department of Social Services where she received many awards and letters from clients on her professionalism and dedication to her job. She was a devoted member of New Jerusalem Baptist Church for many years, where her faith and love for people were evident to all who knew her. Verdelle had a natural gift for understanding others and often joked that she missed her true calling as a psychologist. Anyone who sat across from her knew the routine — cigarette in hand, legs crossed, wisdom flowing — the doctor was definitely in. Verdelle loved the casino and lived by one of her favorite sayings: “Scared money makes no money.” She believed in taking chances, enjoying life, and living without fear or regret and she truly loved every moment of it. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jennie Mae and William Owens; her husband, Andrew Williams; her sisters, Eula Mae Owens and Corrine Harrison (and brother-in-law Carl), her brother, William Willis; and her nephew, Chan Chao. She leaves to cherish her memory her daughters, Akeatha Owens and Andress Monique Williams; her grandchildren, Shalibra, Gary, Corey, and Stephon; two great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren; a host of great-nieces and nephews; and a large circle of family and friends who were blessed by her presence. A special and loving mention is given to her nieces and nephews whom she adored dearly: Ronda Harrison, Carl “Chuckie” Harrison (Katrina), Cassandra Harrison-Edwards, and Breck Harrison. Verdelle Williams will be remembered for her sharp wit, fearless honesty, deep love for family, and unwavering commitment to living life her way. Her legacy lives on in every life she touched.