Shirley Kay Williams

Shirley Kay Williams, 89, of Waco, died peacefully Sunday morning, November 10, 2024, at The Delaney at Lake Waco.

A private family graveside service will be held at Oakwood Cemetery with Rev. Wayne Williams officiating. Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Thursday, November 14, at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funeral Home.

Shirley Kay Williams, beloved daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, brought beauty, love, and warmth into the world. Born on Christmas Day to Gladys and Bill Benke in Kenedy, Texas, Shirley’s grace and elegance left an indelible mark on everyone she met. A shining star as drum major and beauty queen later crowned Miss San Antonio, Shirley’s charm and poise were unmatched. She met her soulmate, Bill George Williams, drawn to his piano playing in college, and together they built a beautiful life in Waco, Texas, raising their three daughters: Sharron, Susan, and Mary Ann. Shirley’s creativity and style infused everything she touched. Her stunning watercolor paintings now grace her family’s homes, each a reminder of her joyful spirit. Born with the gift of hospitality, her home was always, beautifully appointed, warm, and inviting. She poured love into every detail, from baking her famous Italian cream cakes for family birthdays to letting her granddaughters pick out her fabulous yellow Cadillac. Shirley was always eager to create special memories with those she loved. No one was more proud of her family than Shirley. She carried their photos with her wherever she went and attended every game, performance, and milestone, sharing stories of her loved ones with anyone who would listen. She filled their lives with cherished traditions, from homecooked Sunday lunches and holiday gatherings to spontaneous trips to spend time with those she loved. 

Shirley will be fondly remembered by the family she leaves behind: Daughters Sharron (Steve) Cutbirth and Susan (Jeff) Miller; grandchildren Catherine (Will) Powers, Caroline (Michael) Hobby, Blaise Miller and Pierce Miller; and great granddaughters Genevieve Powers and Sunny Hobby.

Now reunited with her beloved PoppaBill and Mary Ann, Shirley’s family takes comfort in knowing they are together once again. They are also deeply grateful for Ralph Williams, her devoted companion in her final years, and the compassionate care she received from the staff at The Delaney. Shirley leaves behind a legacy of love, beauty, and treasured memories, along with a timeless reminder: “You know what—don’t forget, I love you, now and always.”

The family invites you to leave a message or memory of Shirley Kay on her “Tribute Wall” at www.WHBfamily.com.