Fannie C. Williams

Fannie Bell Cogdell Williams, was born on April 15, 1923 to the late James and Essie Mae (Esters) Cogdell.  She was the first of five children born into this union.  Following the tradition and ideals of her parents, she accepted Christ at an early age. She regularly attended Second New Light Baptist Church (NC) in her early years, where she was an active participant in many programs and activities.

Fannie grew up in a loving and caring home. Raised on the family farm, her parents instilled in her the importance of hard work, forward thinking, and perseverance. She strived to make her parents proud and to be a positive influence in her family. From a young age, Fannie loved to wear white dresses and shoes. Her love for the color white and genuine concern for others, lead to a career in nursing. In 1941, she attended Bladen County Training School in Elizabethtown, NC, and studied at McCain Hospital in McCain, NC, to become a registered nurse. Upon completion of her degree (RN), she worked as a nurse in Kinston, NC, which provided her the opportunity to assist her family.

In the late 1940’s Fannie relocated to Washington, DC, where she met and wed her late husband, Albert Williams, Sr. and joined Mount Carmel Baptist Church (DC). The union between Fannie and Albert produced two children, Albert Jr. and Deborah (Dee), who were the light of her life, and whom she often doted.

Fannie’s nursing career spanned over 50 years. She worked at DC General Hospital, where she began as the Head Nurse of Neurosurgery. In 1985 after 36 years of service, Fannie retired from DC General Hospital as the Head Nurse of Orthopedics. However, after seeing both kids through college, Fannie wasn’t content with retirement and began what soon became a second career. In 1986 she began working as a nursing supervisor at Stoddard Baptist Nursing Home, where she worked another 10 years. Fannie ultimately retired from nursing in November 1996.

Through her entire nursing career, Fannie was recognized for having excellent bedside manner and being loved by all. She made sure that her patients were comfortable, properly cared for and attended to. At home and at work, she was known to be stern, but fair. She rarely raised her voice. However, when she put her hands on her hips, you knew she was displeased. She was adored by her staff and patients alike, and was often affectionately referred to as “Mom” by many in her personal and professional life.

Fannie is preceded in life by her husband Albert, Sr., her siblings Elijah Cogdell (Holly) and Rosa Siler, bother-in-laws James Williams (Avonia) and Seymore Williams, granddaughter Ariana, and dear friend Elizabeth Bryant - “Aunt Lizzy”. She leaves to cherish her memories two sisters, Bertha Perry (Raymond Sr., deceased) and Mildred Williams (Clarence, Sr.), brother-in-law, Charles Siler; son, Albert Williams, Jr. (Mary); daughter, Dee Williams-Lofton (Eddie); grandchildren, Dantae, Jehrel, Danielle (Kovar), Brandon, Taylor, Mykaila and Aaron; and a host of great grands, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Fannie will join her beloved husband in her final resting place at Lincoln Cemetery.

Fannie touched the lives of many, and left a lasting impression on everyone she came in contact with. She was the matriarch of her family. She will be truly missed by all.

O when I come to the end of my journey weary of life and the battle is won, carry the staff and cross of redemption; He'll understand and say "Well Done"

Viewing on Wednesday, April 24, 2013 at 10:00 am and funeral at 11:00 am at Mount Carmel Baptist Church, 901 3rd Street NW (map/directions). Interment at Lincoln Memorial Cemetery (map/directions). Arrangements by Horton Funeral Home.