Services Set for Velva Williams

(Editors Note: We have never carried an obituary in The Observer but this one is special. Velva Williams fought the wretched beast that is Cancer harder and longer than anyone we've ever known, an example to others to never give up.)



VELVA ASHCRAFT WILLIAMS
1955-2006

Velva Ashcraft Williams, 50, Died Thursday, March 16, 2006 at home, after a hard fought 7 year battle with cancer.

Velva was born November 29, 1955 in Florence, AZ to William “Bud” Ashcraft and Annie Mae (Hannah) Ashcraft. She grew up in Coolidge, AZ. She graduated from University of Oklahoma as a Registered Physical Therapist, practicing in Oklahoma City, and Edmond before joining Integris Regional, Miami, OK. She last worked as in-patient supervisor for rehab there, before going on medical leave.

In her fight with breast cancer, she participated in several treatment trials at CTRC, San Antonio, TX, & at MD Anderson, Houston, TX, hoping if it didn’t cure her, maybe it would someone else. Let’s pray it does.

Velva is survived by her husband, Steve Williams of Grove, daughter, Lee Horlacher of Kansas City, MO, step-son Joshua Williams and wife Melissa of Grove, Granddaughter Whitney Williams of Grove, mother-in-law, Irene Williams of Grove, Brothers Chester Irons, Bakersfield CA, Johnny Ashcraft, Coolidge AZ, Truitt Ashcraft, Casa Grande AZ, David Ashcraft, Henryetta OK, Sister Donna Smith, of Van Buren AR. She was preceded in Death by her parents & a sister.

Services will be officiated by Rev. Malcolm Mosby, longtime family friend, at First Christian Church, in Grove, Sunday at 2 p.m.; following will be a graveside services at Tracy Church Cemetery, 7 miles east of Anderson, MO on Hwy 76.