Laris Williams' Obituary
Mrs. Laris Mae Williams (Ables), 86, passed away peacefully on September 28, 2025, in Huntington, Texas.
Born on May 17, 1939, in Arkansas, Laris lived a full and vibrant life defined by her deep faith, love for family, and joyful spirit. She was known to many simply as "Grandma Laris," a title she wore with pride and warmth, extending her love far beyond her immediate family to embrace all who knew her.
Laris was of the Baptist faith and had a profound love for the Lord. For many years, she was a devoted member of Harmony Odell Missionary Baptist Church. Even when health challenges made it difficult to attend in person, she remained spiritually connected by faithfully watching Sunday sermons via Facebook Live Stream.
Family was the cornerstone of Laris's life. She is lovingly remembered by her children: Glenda Bynum Jefferson, Richard Bynum, Kathy Bynum Rodrigez, Mark Bynum and wife Patty, and Ben Williams and wife Tonya. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Jason Griesbach, Justin Schawalls, Jason Hale and wife Ohia, Megan Bynum Loper and husband Josh, Michel Minnihan, Gregg Minnihan and wife Sachie,
David Powel, Mary Powel Umbriaco and husband Benjamin, Richard Powel and wife Percilla, Ruth Powel, Shariece Williams, Taylor Starke and husband Donald, Charles Williams and wife Sarah, and Paige Carrell. She was also blessed with 28 great grandchildren who brought her immense joy.
Laris also leaves behind large and loving extended family including her siblings:
Nadine Sims; Alex Learner and husband Norman; Billy Nicks and wife Cathie; Marlin Nicks and wife Stacy; Betty Ryan; Betty Solise and husband Paul; Ginger Pickens and husband Jeff; and Mary Lee Ables. She will be fondly remembered by numerous nieces, nephews, and a multitude of friends whose lives she touched with her kindness.
She now joins in eternal rest her beloved husband, Phillip Williams; her parents Luther Ables and Willie Mae French; sisters Marie Bartsch, Barbara Boles and Gina Feldman; brother Gene Ables; sisters-in-law Benita Williams, Ginger Elliott, and Marilyn Choate; grandson Ryan Stringer; and her faithful cat Sunshine.
Laris found joy in life's simple pleasures. She loved fishing and spending time outdoors.
A devoted Houston Astros fan, she rarely missed a game. Movie nights with Paige and Riley were cherished moments for her, as were reading books to the great-grands—if they could sit still long enough. She enjoyed crossword puzzles and coloring with Olivia, shopping trips and Sonic runs with Aunt Marie. Her green thumb brought beauty to every garden she touched.
She also had a playful side—she enjoyed visits to the casino where she liked playing Keno. Her infectious smile lit up any room she entered, always accompanied by a warm hug that made everyone feel at home.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Huntington Health and Rehab Facility for the compassionate care provided to Grandma Laris over the past several months.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Laris's memory to Heart to Heart Hospice at 2102 S John Redditt Dr., Lufkin, Texas 75904.
Laris Mae Williams's legacy is one of enduring love thpt lives on through her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family members, church community, and all those fortunate enough to have known her. May her memory bring comfort to all who mourn her passing. A Memorial Gathering will be held on October 19, 2025, from 02:00 PM to 03:30 PM at Harmony Odell Missionary Baptist Church 2928 Knightwood Rd, with Rev. Jackson Colwell and Charles Williams officiating.
Cremation under the direction of Colonial Mortuary.
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