Kathleen Ann Williams

Kathleen Ann Williams, age 95, of Lakeland FL, peacefully passed away on July 7, 2026, surrounded by loved ones.

Born on July 25,1930 and raised in North Dighton, MA. Kathleen was the 5th of six children. From a young age, her vibrant energy and athletic spirit shone brightly; in high school she was both a proud member of the basketball team and a cheerleader. After school, she began working at the local telephone company, marking the start of a lifetime of dedication and hard work.

It was during these formative years that she met the love of her life, Thomas Williams. They married in 1951 and the journey began. In 1962, with five young children in tow, Kathleen and Tom made the bold and exciting move to Florida. Kathleen seamlessly traded her New England winters (although not her accent!) for a life filled with sunshine and non-stop family activity and fun. She was the quintessential supportive mom for all her children’s sports and activities; organizing carpools, sewing dresses, leading the Cub Scouts, and much more.

Kathleen was a woman of profound faith. As a devout Catholic, she was deeply involved in her church community, dedicating her time and heart to her parish over many years.

Beyond her devotion to faith and family, Kathleen was a fierce competitor. Whether she was on the tennis court, the golf course, at the bridge table, or dominating a game of ping-pong, she played to win and brought an infectious energy to every game.

In their later years, Kathleen and Tom spent many cherished summers traveling across the United States in their RV. They meticulously documented every step of the way, leaving behind a beautiful record of their adventures together.

She leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and a spirit of adventure that will live on through her family.

Kathleen was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas; her parents, Thomas and Isabel Higgins; her son David; her sisters Charlotte Holbrook and Elaine Little and brother Paul Higgins. She is survived by her son Jeff, her daughter Susan Haddon, her son Tim (Ann), her daughter Jenifer Childress (Brad), her grandsons Tanner Haddon and Jared Williams; her sisters Clare Bakon and Beth Shumway; and countless nieces and nephews. She will be missed dearly.

A funeral mass to honor her life will be held on Thursday July 16, 2026, at 11:00am at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 501 E Carter Road, Lakeland FL. A reception in the rectory hall to follow.