Gail M. Williams

Gail M. Williams, of Leesville, passed away on Monday, August 31, 2026. Born in Lancaster, South Carolina, on February 17, 1948, she was the daughter of the late James and Millie Phillips Barrett. Gail was a member of Steadman Baptist Church, where her faith and kindness were evident in the way she lived her life. She enjoyed many simple pleasures that brought her joy: coloring, baking (especially her well‑known fruit cakes), crocheting, and listening to Elvis. She loved cooking Sunday dinners for her family and took great pride in the beautiful flowers she grew, especially roses, which she planted throughout her yard. She was a loving wife, mother, sister, and “Nanny”. Her family was the heart of her world.

Gail is survived by her husband of 26 years, Steve Williams; her children, Rodney Johnson (Angie), Laura Jean Johnson; and daughter-in-law, India Farmer (Tracy); eight grandchildren: Courtney Johnson, Shayna Miller, Allen Johnson Jr. (Megan), Zachary Johnson (Miranda), Rodney Johnson Jr., Clint Caron, Britney Caron (Sanford), and Crystal Smith (Tracey); as well as 28 great‑grandchildren. She is also survived by her sisters, Suzette Russell (Ricki) and Lisa Barlett; along with several nieces, nephews, and extended family members who loved her dearly.

In addition to her parents, Gail was preceded in death by her children, Ray Johnson, Kay Johnson, and Allen Johnson Sr.; her granddaughter, Ashley Bennett; and her siblings, Phillip Watts and Shonea Williams.

The service to celebrate the life of Gail will be held at 2 o'clock on Saturday, September 5th at Steadman Baptist Church with Pastor Neal Smith and the Rev. Ray Taylor officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will greet friends prior to the service from 1 until 2 o'clock in the church sanctuary. Milton Shealy Funeral Home, Batesburg-Leesville Chapel, is assisting the family.