Evelyn Williams

Evelyn S. Williams, 93, of Atlantic Beach, passed away on January 11, 2024.  She was born in Pembroke, GA to the late Lois and Henry Strickland.  After moving to Jacksonville with her family, Evelyn was introduced to her husband, Billy, by his mother who was her Sunday School teacher at church.  They were married on May 21, 1950, and had celebrated seventy-one years at the time of his death. 

Evelyn worked in downtown Jacksonville as an executive secretary prior to becoming a mother.  She and Billy built their dream house in Jacksonville Beach in 1959 and became permanent beach residents.  This home was at the heart of many celebrations, including the four grandchildren’s very competitive Easter egg hunts! 

After her youngest child entered elementary school, Evelyn returned to the workforce to put her secretarial skills back into practice.  She initially joined the support staff at San Pablo Elementary, followed by Fletcher Junior High, and finally assisted in opening Mayport Middle School as the principal’s administrative assistant.

As an adult, Evelyn grew to share her husband’s passion for golf.  They joined Selva Marina Country Club as founding members.  She was the first female president of the club, serving two terms from 2001-2002.  Most of their travels with family and friends revolved around the sport they loved, but they did find time to visit Hawaii, Italy, and Alaska.

Evelyn was a long-time, active member of First Baptist Church, Jacksonville Beach. 

Family was everything to Evelyn.  She was predeceased by the love of her life, Billy Charles; and one sister, Virginia Williams.  She is survived by two daughters, Debra Lynch (Carter) and Janice Donaldson (Myles); four grandchildren, Abby Magill (Will), Anna Lowman (Ryan), Dylan Lynch (Michaele) and Elliot Donaldson (fiancé Michaela O’Banion); and two great grandchildren, Titus and Georgiana Lynch.  Special thanks to the staff in long-term nursing at Derfer Pavilion, Fleet Landing for the loving care they provided for Evelyn.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Evelyn’s life at 11:00 am, on February 9th at Atlantic Beach Country Club.