Peggy Lee Stephens-Williams

I was born on May 20, 1953, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, to my loving parents, the late Ezell and Rosetta
Stephens.
I accepted Christ and was baptized at an early age at Pilgrim Baptist Church under the leadership of
the late Pastor John Dixie, Sr. Throughout my life, my faith remained important to me. I became an
active member at Cornerstone Christian Worship Center, now known as Cathedral of Praise, under
Pastor Oscar J. Underwood and I later continued my faith journey at Summit Church, led by Pastor
Albert Jennings.
I graduated from South Side High School in 1971 and continued my education at Indiana University,
where I earned my Bachelor of Science in Physical Education in 1976. I went on to Ball State
University, where I received my Master of Arts in Physical Education in 1982.
While attending Indiana University, in January 1973, I joined the Tau Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha
Sorority, Inc., alongside 17 other women known as 1“18” (1 to the 18 power). After graduation, I
became a member of Iota Chi Omega Chapter in Fort Wayne, Indiana, where I had the honor of
serving as President from 2015 to 2017. As a Golden Soror, I proudly served for 53 years. One of my
greatest joys was my legacy, which includes five Sorors who joined me on The Vine. I was known for
my radiant smile, my honesty, my encouraging words, my vibrant spirit, and my compassionate
heart.

In 1971, as a college freshman, I met the love of my life, Joseph Williams, Sr. We were united in holy
matrimony in 1983. I lovingly embraced his children—Crystal, Alisa, Kia, and Jason—as my own.
Together, we were blessed with two children, Joseph and Zuri.
My teaching career spanned 40 years with Fort Wayne Community Schools. I retired after inspiring
countless students to pursue their dreams. I also enjoyed supporting many organizations and
community events. If you ever needed someone to sell a ticket, you could call on me—because even
if I couldn’t attend, I would always support by purchasing one.
I was preceded in death by my beloved husband, Joseph Williams Sr., my parents, and my brothers
Michael Stephens Sr., Willard Stephens Sr., Frederick Stephens Sr., Gregory Stephens, and my
sister, Sheila Stephens Jones.

I leave behind a legacy of love through my children: Crystal (Jeffery) Davis
of Nashville, TN; Alisa Brooks of Fort Wayne, IN; Kia (Ramon) Jones of
Indianapolis, IN; Jason Brooks of Dallas, TX; Joseph (Lynnette) Williams Jr.
of Silver Spring, MD; and Zuri Williams of Fort Wayne, IN; a god-daughter,
Angela Henry; Arnetta Scruggs and Tiairra Hairston whom I cherished

like my daughters. I am also blessed with 14 grandchildren, 7 great-
grandchildren, and 3 special grandchildren who brought immense joy to

my life. I leave behind my loving sisters, Diana (Arnold) Scruggs, and
Gwendolyn (Lewis) Poindexter, my sister in love, Sharon Stephens, my
brothers, Shelton (Nina) Stephens, Curtis Stephens Sr., and Jeffery
(Donna) Smith Sr., my dear Uncle Isaac Hut Stephens, and Aunt Angeline
Barron, and special cousins, Henry Etta Savage and Jacqueline Dufor. I am
also cherished by a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members,
and many loving friends who have all been a meaningful part of my life.

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