Catherine Williams

Catherine (Smith) Williams, 82, of Grand Blanc, Michigan, passed away peacefully on May 8, 2026.

Catherine was born on March 1, 1944, in Hamilton, Scotland. At the age of 21, she moved to America to follow her family and begin a new life filled with love, hard work, and devotion to those around her.

A tireless worker throughout her life, Catherine held many jobs over the years. It was while working at AC Spark Plugs (General Motors) that she met Eddie Williams, the love of her life and true soul mate. The two shared 47 loving years of marriage before Eddie’s passing.

Above all else, Catherine cherished her family. Her children, grandchildren, and loved ones were the center of her world, and she spent her life caring for others with endless generosity and compassion. She laughed easily, gave effortlessly, and made everyone around her feel loved and welcomed. Though only 5 feet 2 inches tall, Catherine’s heart and spirit were larger than life.

She found joy in good music, Hallmark movies, Scottish chocolates, and anything & everything that smelled wonderful & clean. Her home was always warm, comforting, and beautifully cared for. Her grandson, Anthony Naylor Jr., lovingly joked that “She could smell the grass grow.”

Catherine is survived by her sister, Rebecca Mathews; nephew, Robert Mathews; and niece, Diane (Mathews) Mishra and husband Alok Mishra.

She is also survived by her children: Catherine Murphy Seals and spouse Willie C. Seals; Linda Ann Murphy and spouse Neil W. Arnold; Michelle Murphy and spouse Sandi Chesanek; and Alexander Joseph Murphy and spouse Sunny Murphy.

She additionally leaves behind her beloved grandchildren: Brianna Latrice Russell, Brian David Russell II, Anthony Naylor Jr., Alexis Rae (Murphy) Dowty and spouse Jim Dowty, along with many treasured great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Catherine will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered for her kindness, strength, humor, and the unconditional love she shared so freely with all who knew her.