Cynthia Fae Williams

Cynthia Fae Williams, a devoted educator and beloved community member, passed away on May 11, 2025, at her mother’s home in Grove, Oklahoma. Born on January 7, 1959, in Kimball, Nebraska, Cynthia embodied a spirit of optimism and service that touched countless lives.

With a bachelor’s degree in education, Cynthia dedicated her career to special-needs teaching, leaving an indelible mark on her students. Warm-hearted and sociable, she was always ready to lend an ear and support to anyone in need.

A certified Master Gardener and 4-H leader, Cynthia helped create school vegetable gardens and eagerly shared her horticultural expertise with the garden club she started. Her creativity also shone in her crafting. She teamed up with her daughter to teach classes, baked extraordinary birthday cakes, and sewed handmade Halloween costumes—memories now woven into the family’s legacy.

An advocate for children with disabilities, Cynthia’s compassion extended beyond the classroom. She volunteered with the Special Olympics and championed opportunities for every child to shine.

Although passionate about her work and community service, Cynthia found her greatest joy in her family. A loving wife, mother, daughter, sister, and grandmother, she centered her life on nurturing those she loved. Whether teaching, crafting, or simply being present, she delighted in time spent with her children and grandchildren. Her unwavering encouragement, boundless creativity, and family traditions made her the heart of the household.

Cynthia is survived by her mother, Billie Parker; her husband, Duane Williams; and her four children: Travis Williams and wife Rachel, Amber Updike and husband Justin, Stuart Williams, and Robert Williams. She was the proud grandmother of six grandchildren—Jacob and Caleb Williams; and Paisley, Oakley, Jameson, and Kinley Updike—and is fondly remembered by her sister, Sandra Parker.

She was preceded in death by her father, Winton Parker.

Memorial Services will be held at 11 AM, Saturday, June 7, 2025 at Worley-Luginbuel Funeral Home Chapel in Grove, Oklahoma. 

Cynthia Fae Williams leaves a legacy of love, creativity, and steadfast dedication to both education and family. Her generous spirit will continue to inspire all who knew her, reminding them of the enduring power of togetherness and unconditional love.

The family would like to invite loved ones to a luncheon following the service: 25941 S 579 Loop. Afton, Oklahoma 74331.