Deetra Williams Obituary

Deetra "Dee" Jeanette Williams, beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister and Yaya, passed peacefully on March 28, 2025, surrounded by her loving family at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri. Dee, who was 56 years old, touched the hearts of all who knew her with her kindness, empathy, and joyful spirit. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and everyone who had the privilege of crossing paths with her.
Born on December 16, 1968, in Wichita, Kansas, Dee was the daughter of Gregory Pennington and Sharon Marie Pennington. She moved to Columbia, Missouri, at the age of 5 and graduated from Columbia Public Schools. Dee went on to earn a Bachelor's degree from Columbia College. Over the years, Dee became known for her warm heart, generous nature, and infectious sense of humor. Her positive energy was felt by everyone around her.
Dee dedicated over 25 years of service to the City of Columbia Municipal Court and later worked at Love Columbia for several years following her retirement. She was a founding member of the Eternal Refuge Church, where she was an integral part of the community. Dee had a passion for crafting, painting, DIY projects, event decorating, and attempting to grow a garden-though her true love was spending time with her family. Dee was a regular shopper at Hobby Lobby, always on the lookout for the perfect project to bring to life.
Dee's greatest joy was the time spent with her loved ones. She is survived by her devoted husband, Gene Williams; daughters, Charlis Phillips (Jonathan) and Danielle Maurer (Stephen); her mother, Sharon Pennington; siblings, Deonna Moore (Chris),Natasha Lewis (Mechoal), Denise Young; grandchildren, Jeremiah Phillips, Isabella Phillips, Naomi Phillips, Gianna Phillips and Elijah Maurer; and godchildren, Kyla Matthews, Josiah Jones, and Ronald Franklin. Dee also leaves behind a large, loving extended family, including many uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins, bonus sisters and friends who cherished her.
A funeral service to honor Dee's life will be held on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at Progressive Missionary Baptist Church. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by the service at 11:00 a.m. A graveside committal will follow at Columbia Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Missouri Cancer Associates in Dee's memory. As a tribute to Dee's love for sunflowers, the family invites you to surround her with these beautiful blooms when sending flowers. As Helen Keller once said, "Keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot see the shadow. It's what sunflowers do." Dee was our sunflower, always looking towards the light, and her spirit will continue to brighten our lives.
Rest in peace, Dee. You will forever be in our hearts.
Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service and Crematory, 12 E. Ash St.; Columbia, Missouri 65203. (573) 449-4153. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.milardfamilychapels.com
To send flowers to the family of Deetra, please visit our floral store.