It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Irene Berthe Williams on November 23, 2024, at the age of 94. Her two daughters, Evelyn Jost and Sonia Williams (Bill Buchanan), were by her side.
The family is grateful for the loving care provided by the staff on the assisted living floor at Maplewood Retirement Community, Ontario Health at Home palliative care nurses, and MLC Health Care staff who cared for Irene in her final weeks.
Irene lived a vibrant life filled with passion for the arts, travel, and athletic pursuits like skiing, skating, swimming, and tennis. She was known for her warm hospitality, engaging conversations, and delicious meals shared with loved ones around her table.
Born in Zurich, Switzerland, in 1930, Irene followed her sweetheart, the late Charles Williams, to Canada in 1955. Settling in Ottawa, they raised three children together. Irene was a faithful member of the Metropolitan Bible Church, where she taught and led women’s groups for decades. She also traveled across North America speaking at women’s retreats and conferences, sharing her story of faith.
Predeceased by her husband Charles Williams (2014), her son Peter Williams (2011), and her son-in-law Rev. Randy Jost (2021), Irene is survived by her 7 grandchildren—Heidi, Jared (Marie-Joelle), Lyndon (Lami), Nathan (Katherine), Joel, David, and Adam (Julie)—and 15 great-grandchildren, with whom she shared loving relationships.
Visitation will take place at the Metropolitan Bible Church, 2176 Prince of Wales Dr, Nepean, on Sunday, December 1, 2024, from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. A funeral service will be held on Monday, December 2, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., followed by a reception. Interment will be at Capital Memorial Gardens. For those unable to attend, the service will be livestreamed at this link.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the University of Ottawa Heart Institute are appreciated in gratitude to Dr. Thierry Mesana, who performed Irene’s lifesaving surgery in 2010.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Tubman Funeral Homes.
