Jean Phyllis Williams

Jean Phyllis Williams, 88, of Philpot, went to be with the Lord on July 11, 2025. Jean was born in Olaton, KY, on June 24, 1937, to the late William and Maggie St. Claire Crume.

Jean dedicated her life to family, faith, and service. After graduating from high school, she began her teaching career at Horse Branch School, embarking on what would become a lifelong commitment to education. She later earned her degree and Rank I certification from Western Kentucky University.

Jean retired as a guidance counselor at Owensboro High School after more than 31 years of service in education. She was instrumental in shaping the academic paths of countless students, personally creating school schedules for every student, a task she approached with care and precision. Her impact on the school community extended beyond academics, as she was known for going out of her way to support students, colleagues, and anyone in need.

Her faith was the cornerstone of her life. Jean was a devoted member of Bethabara Baptist Church, where she taught Sunday School for over 30 years and served in numerous other roles. She lived out her beliefs every day, never hesitating to share her testimony, even in her final days under the care of Ohio County Hospice.

A devoted caregiver, Jean selflessly tended to her parents, aunts, and uncles with unwavering compassion. She was also a talented quilter, finding joy and community in the Owensboro Quilt Guild and the Ohio County Piece Makers.

Above all, Jean cherished her role as a mother and grandmother. She raised her two sons with the same strong work ethic and faith that guided her own life, never missing a sporting event or school function. Together, they enjoyed family trips to historic sites across the country. Her love extended to her grandchildren, whom she supported and celebrated just as fiercely. Jean’s happiest moments were those spent surrounded by her large extended family, especially when gathered around the table enjoying one of her home-cooked meals.

Jean Williams lived a life of purpose, marked by hard work, deep faith, and boundless love for those around her.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 51 years, Charles E. Williams.

Those left to cherish her memory include her sons, Thomas Bryant Williams and his wife Stacey of Silver Spring, MD and their daughter Whitney Williams and Barry K. Williams and his wife Martie of Philpot and their children Lucas Williams, Lindsey Williams, and Lake Williams; brother, Bob Crume and his wife Linda of Olaton, KY and their children Tina Allred and Tracey Crume, and several beloved cousins.

The funeral service for Jean Williams will be at 2:00 pm on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at Bethabara Baptist Church. Visitation will be from 10:00 am until 1:00 pm on Tuesday at Glenn Funeral Home and Crematory. Burial will follow in Bethabara Baptist Church Cemetery.

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to Hospice of Ohio County, 1211 Main Street, Hartford, KY, United States, Kentucky 42347, or Bethabara Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, 2946 KY-142, Philpot, KY 42366

Messages and condolences for the family may be offered at www.glenncares.com.