Genada (Pinkie) Casey Williams

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Mrs. Genada (Pinkie) Casey Williams, 70, formerly of Cross, South Carolina who transitioned, on Saturday, August 31, 2024, in Charlotte, North Carolina.  Please adhere to all COVID-19 precautions and guidelines when visiting the family and funeral home. 

Genada "Pinkie" Casey Williams

Pinkie Williams, born Genada Casey on March 25, 1954, to Gloria Casey and the late Joseph Ferguson in Cross, SC, passed away peacefully on August 31, 2024, at Novant Health Presbyterian Hospice Medical Center in Charlotte, NC. She was a beloved daughter, mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, and friend.

Pinkie graduated from Cross High School in 1972 and enrolled at The University of Texas at Tyler. She also attended Barber-Scotia College in Concord, NC. Raised in a Christian home, she developed a deep faith early in life while attending Jehovah AME Church. In 1978, she gave her life to Christ and was baptized at Jacksonville Road Church of Christ in Charleston, SC. After moving to Charlotte, she became a dedicated member of the University Church of Christ.

Pinkie was an active and passionate advocate for her community. She believed in the power of education and higher learning, championing civil rights as a member of the NAACP. Pinkie also valued the importance of civic engagement, often taking her daughters door-to-door to encourage neighbors to exercise their right to vote. She worked in the Mecklenburg County school system for many years before her illness.

Known for her humor, generosity, and strong spirit, Pinkie touched many lives. She always remembered birthdays, never missing the chance to send a card that often included a surprise cherished tradition of slipping in $1, $2, or even a stick of gum. Whenever someone was sick or grieving, Pinkie would go out of her way, traveling miles to offer comfort and support.

In 2021, Pinkie was diagnosed with cancer. Though doctors predicted she had a short time to live, she fought with unwavering strength, enduring several surgeries and treatments. Even when treatments were no longer available, Pinkie continued to persevere, displaying her incredible resilience until the very end.

Her caring nature and positive influence will be deeply missed by all.

Pinkie is survived by: her children, Brentley Kalani Casey Williams and Brandi Jalani Casey Williams, and granddaughter, Zaniyah Williams-Moore all of Charlotte, NC. She also leaves behind her mother, Gloria Casey McNeil of Cross, SC; her sisters, Etheline "Lena* Mizell (Clinton) of North Charleston, SC and Sara Jane Kennedy (Nathaniel) of Sumter, SC; her brothers, James McNeil Jr. (Denise) of Huger, SC, Larry McNeil (Gloria) of Orlando, FL, Gemetrius McNeil (Victoria) of Indian Trail, NC, Joseph Ferguson Jr. of North Charleston, SC, and Jerome Ferguson (Barbara) of Mount Pleasant, SC. Additionally, she is survived by her special cousin and caretaker, Verna Wade; her caretaker, Vonnie Beckham, and a host of cherished family and friends.

A special "Thank you" to Minister Deberry and Minister Alexander Moss, and the congregations of the University Church of Christ in Charlotte, NC,  and Center Grove Church of Christ in  Kannapolis, NC, for your love shown to Pinkie.

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