With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Novella Williams, a devoted educator, mentor, and cherished family member, who departed this life March 8, 2025.

Born in Glenwood,Ga she attended local schools, graduating from Northwestern High School. Continuing her education, Novella received degrees from Florida A&M University and Edwards Waters College (now university).

Her faith was central to her life. She grew up in Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church before becoming a devoted member of Bethel Baptist Institutional Church, where she served as the Assistant Superintendent of Sunday School.

Novella dedicated her life to education and service. She spent years shaping young minds as a 2nd-grade teacher at Carter G . Woodson Elementary School before transitioning to her role as a Media Specialist. at Louis Sheffield Elementary School, where she fostered a love of reading in countless students. After approximately 40 years of dedicated service with Duval County Public Schools, she retired leaving behind a legacy of knowledge and kindness.

Novella was initiated in the Gamma Rho Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated in 1978, where she was active and held various leadership roles. She was also an active member of the Northside Storytellers, sharing her love of literature and storytelling with her community.  Novella additionally served as a member of the Vieliedo Ladies Social Oraganization.

Beyond her professional and community work, Novella had a passion for photography and reading, always capturing beautiful moments and immersing herself in the written word.

She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Ray Williams, Sr. and Rosa Mae Balcom Williams; her brother,Ray Williams, Jr.;  her sister, Rosemary Williams; and her dear nephew, Robinson Jamaal Williams; and niece, Tenyesha Michelle Williams.

She leaves behind a loving family to cherish her memory; her brother Robinson Williams; sister-In-love, Arlene Nicholas Williams; sisters, Phillis Varnado and Robin Williams Marshall (Linwood); nieces, Rollin L. Scott and Jorryn Dickenson White (Khambrell). She also leaves behind treasured friendship with The Mack Family (Henry,Phyllis, and Shawnda), Earlene Kitchings, Anne Hart, Jeanette Williams, Michelle Daniels, and many other cherished relatives and friends who will forever hold her in their hearts.

Novella's warmth, wisdom and unwavering dedication to others will be deeply missed but never forgotten.