FORT LAUDERDALE, FL — The Fort Lauderdale community is mourning the transition of Mrs. Daisy Mae Williams, a beloved servant leader whose nearly nine decades were marked by abiding faith, devotion to family and a commitment to others.
Born February 25, 1936, in Fort Lauderdale, Williams was raised in a Christian home and followed the spiritual example of her mother, Nancy Williams. A graduate of Dillard High School’s Class of 1955, she continued her education at Bethune Cookman College and Florida A&M University.
Williams dedicated 29 years to the School Board of Broward County, serving students and families with integrity and compassion.
Her deep commitment to ministry was evident throughout her life. A longtime member of Mt. Hermon AME Church, Williams served on the Pulpit Aid Board, Annie T. Reed Board, Trustee Board and Steward Board and helped organize the Class Leaders ministry. She was also a “super volunteer” in the church office who gave freely of her time, sitting with the sick, assisting those in need and helping families whenever called upon.
Whether it was Women’s Day, Unity Day, Calendar Club Day, church teas or another ministry effort, Sister Daisy could be counted on to lend a hand. Her smile, laughter and willingness to serve became part of the fabric of church life.
Her Christian fellowship also touched the St. John Missionary Baptist Church family, known as the “House of Love,” which joined in extending prayers and condolences to her family while lifting the words of Scripture: “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.”
Williams peacefully transitioned on August 18, 2026.
She leaves a rich legacy through her daughters, Angela (James) Peavy and Lesha (Bobette) Henderson; grandchildren, Christopher (Ashley) Sebastian and Jacobi Peavy; great-grandson, James (Tre’) Andre Thaddies III; her sisters, extended family, goddaughter, church families, friends and countless others touched by her kindness.
In recognition of her extraordinary life, the Broward County Board of County Commissioners, at the request of Vice Mayor Robert McKinzie, proclaimed August 18, 2026, “Daisy Mae Williams Remembrance Day.”
Yet perhaps the most personal measure of Sister Daisy’s life can be found in something simple: she never forgot your special day.
A birthday. A graduation. A wedding anniversary. A new accomplishment. Whatever the occasion, Sister Daisy would send a card. It was her way of saying, I see you. I celebrate you. You matter.
Those cards were more than greetings. They were part of her ministry. She paid attention to people, celebrated their milestones, and made them feel special.
For Daisy Mae Williams, service was not simply something she did. It was the way she lived.
As the familiar hymn declares:
“Whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say, it is well, it is well with my soul.”
Sister Daisy has transitioned from labor to reward, leaving behind a lifetime of faith, service and love, tucked away in homes throughout this community, countless cards bearing the personal touch of a woman who never forgot to let others know they mattered.