The Family of Martha Frances Langston Williamson, known to many as “Martha Jean” or “Mott”, celebrate the life of our beloved Mother and Nanny. “Mott” passed peacefully into eternity on Tuesday, March 08, 2022, at the Yalobusha County Nursing Home at the age of 89.
She came into this world May 25, 1932, delivered by her Uncle, Dr. John Martin in Oakland, Mississippi. She enjoyed spending summers with her Langston Cousins in the Ford’s Well Community where her grandfather, “Pa” Langston, led the singing at the Ford’s Well Church of Christ of which she was a member at the time of her death.
A graduate of Jeff Davis High School, Martha was actively involved in the FHA, Y-Teen, and the Commercial Club. She served as Senior Class Secretary, Annual Editor, and was Valedictorian of her senior class. Martha received a scholarship to play basketball for the Rangers of Northwest Mississippi Junior College.
She and her husband, Billy Bryce Williamson, began their married life in Starkville until Bill completed his education at MSU. They made their home in Water Valley where they lived together for 65 years. Mott possessed an incredible green thumb and found her passion in gardening. She enjoyed giving tours to friends and strangers who would drop by to see all of her latest flowers and plants. Many also remember her as a fantastic cook who relished providing food to friends and neighbors. She instilled her work ethic and love of serving others to her family who witnessed her numerous hours spent visiting the sick and infirmed, both in their homes and in hospitals and nursing homes. You were always welcome at Mott’s house where you were sure to enjoy vegetables from her garden or a mouth watering dessert.
Visitation is planned for Thursday, March 10, 2022, in the Gardiner Room at Seven Oaks Funeral Home from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM. Funeral Services will be in the Henry Chapel of Seven Oaks Funeral Home Friday, March 11, 2022 at 10:00 AM with Bro. Billy Sasser officiating. Burial will be in Pinecrest Cemetery.
Mott is survived by five children: Mike Williamson (Lorri) of Water Valley, Steve Williamson of Water Valley, Scott Williamson (Deborah) of Smyrna, TN, Pat Williamson (Angelina) of Water Valley, and Carolyn Dodson (Jason) of Madison, AL; 15 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren.
Mott was preceded in death by her husband, Bill Bryce Williamson; her parents, Billie Crum and Ruth Pate Langston; siblings Virginia Strunk, Carolyn Fewell, Dorothy Smith, David Langston and Billy Langston, as well as two grandchildren; Kristen Williamson and Justin Williamson.