Patricia Delia Williams

Patricia Delia Harris Williams 

January 10, 1964 – February 22, 2025

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Patricia "Pat" Delia Harris Williams, who departed from this world on February 22, 2025, at 3:33 PM, surrounded by the love of her family at her home in Las Cruces, New Mexico. She was 61 years old.

Born on January 10, 1964, in Commerce, Georgia, Pat was the daughter of Riley and Bernice Harris and the beloved sister to Riley Harris Jr., Raymond Harris, Randy Harris, Barbara Smalding, and Shirley Harris. No matter where life took her, she carried the spirit of her hometown, always honoring her roots and the community that shaped her.

On May 25, 1991, Pat married the love of her life, Jasper Mason Williams III. Their wedding, a reflection of her deep devotion to family and community, was held at Mount Calvary Baptist Church in Commerce so that her loved ones could take part in their joyous union. From that moment on, she and Jasper were inseparable—partners in love, life, and adventure. Together, they built a home filled with laughter and wisdom, raising their two wonderful children, Reagan and Noah, with endless love and unwavering support.

Pat was a lifelong learner, earning her Bachelor of Science from Clayton State University and later a Master of Public Administration with honors from the University of West Georgia. She was a champion for education, always believing that knowledge was the key to freedom and empowerment. She encouraged those around her to deepen their understanding of the world by reading, listening intently, and asking thoughtful questions with curiosity and purpose.

Her professional and volunteer work reflected her unwavering dedication to helping others. She was involved in numerous nonprofit organizations, including the American Red Cross, United Way, the Arthritis Foundation, and Meals on Wheels. Whether she was assisting with grant writing for underserved communities, advocating for historical preservation, or simply paying for a stranger’s meal to brighten their day, Pat lived a life of service. To her, there were no strangers—only friends she had yet to meet.

A historian at heart, Pat was passionate about ensuring African American achievements and overlooked histories were recognized. She researched Georgia’s equalization schools, assisted in securing a historical marker for the Odessadale Colored Schoolhouse, and wrote extensively about unsung stories of resilience and triumph. Her love for history was matched only by her love for conversation, often engaging others in deep discussions, always leaving them richer for having spoken with her.

Pat's adventurous spirit could be seen in her love for music, the outdoors, and discovering new places. She believed in giving her children not just lessons, but experiences—traveling as a family to instill a deep appreciation for the world and its diversity. She found joy in the simple things, whether it was collecting stamps from around the world, enjoying a wide range of books, or engaging in long conversations with her husband and children about anything and everything.

Above all, Pat was a woman of love and light. She took the time to truly understand people, recognizing their worth and ensuring they felt seen. Her kindness was felt in every interaction, leaving an everlasting impact in the hearts of those she touched.

A funeral service will be held on March 10, 2025, at 10:00 AM MST at Bethel Second Baptist Church, 405 E Hadley Avenue, Las Cruces, NM 88001. Pastor Brian Harvey will officiate the service, with a reception to follow at the church. Arrangements are being handled by Getz Funeral Home.

Patricia Delia Harris Williams was an extraordinary woman, a loving wife, mother, sister, and friend. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion, wisdom, and an unwavering belief in the goodness of people. While her absence is immeasurable, so too is the love she leaves behind.

In her honor, we ask that you continue her legacy—lend a helping hand, share a kind word, and never stop learning. Because that is how Pat would have wanted to be remembered.