Iris Williams

Iris “Colleen” Lancaster Williams passed peacefully into the arms of her Lord in the early hours of November 28, 2025, surrounded by the deep love of her family. 

Born on September 20, 1934, in Hamilton, Mississippi, to Troy Allen and Maggie Sue Easter Lancaster, Colleen lived a life marked by faith, devotion, and quiet strength. She graduated from Hamilton High School as salutatorian of her class and continued her education at EMCC and Mississippi State College for Women. 

On January 24, 1954, she married the love of her life, Robert Eugene “Gene” Williams, Sr. Together they built a partnership that lasted 67 beautiful years—anchored by love, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to family. Colleen and Gene owned and operated Williams Grocery, a cornerstone of their community and a legacy of business ownership later carried on by their son and daughter in law through J & E Enterprises. 

Colleen worked for Vista Chemical and later retired from the Monroe County Tax Assessor’s Office. A faithful and lifelong member of Southside Baptist Church, she served joyfully as the church organist, offering her gift of music to generations of worshippers.

Graveside services will be at 2 p.m. on Sunday, November 30, 2025 at Odd Fellows Rest Cemetery in Aberdeen with Bro. David Harrell officiating. 

 Colleen is survived by her son, Robert Eugene Williams Jr., and his wife, Mary Jo, of Aberdeen, Mississippi; her granddaughter, Dr. Allie Marie Williams Lambert, and husband, Eric, of North Aurora, Illinois; and her two great-grandchildren, Robert Cole Lambert and Ember Elise—who were the light of her later years. She is also survived by her sister, Shirley L. Reese (Norman) of Hamilton, Mississippi, her sister-in-law, Carolyn Cork (Colon) of Millport, Alabama, and a host of beloved neices and nephews. 

She was preceded in death by her beloved parents; her devoted husband; and her sisters, Emma Lois Lancaster and Doris Sloan.

Pallbearers will be Russell Sloan, Ronald Sloan, Frank Bender, Tuck Jones, and Ray Hancock.  Honorary pallbearer will be Eric Lambert.

Colleen leaves behind a legacy of gentleness, steadfast love, and a lifetime of quiet acts of service. Her memory will continue to be cherished by all who were blessed to know her.

Visitation will be on Sunday afternoon from 1 p.m. until 1:45 p.m. at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Condolences may be shared with the family at tisdalelannmemorialfh.com