Margaret Allen Williams

Margaret Diane Allen Williams passed away January 16, 2026 at the age of 70. She was born November 28, 1955 to the late Jimmie James Allen and Mollie Green Allen.

Her journey through life spanned many places, from her birthplace in Selma, Alabama, to the charming landscapes of Houma, Louisiana, and Chattanooga, Tennessee, before she returned home to Selma in 2008. Each location held memories that shaped her indomitable character, rich with warmth and fierce affection.

Margaret was, in every sense, a spitfire. Her kind heart harbored an unmistakable fire, exuding love that enveloped those lucky enough to know her. She made it clear where you stood with her—whether in warmth or in critique, honesty was her gift. To meet her was to embrace the lively whirlwind of her personality, as she poured her heart into every relationship and connection. She will forever be remembered for her forthrightness and the depth of her emotions.

A resident of Clanton, Alabama, during the golden years of her life, Margaret preserved a passion for nature that brought her joy. For as long as her health allowed, she could be found picking peaches and strawberries in the fields, celebrating the simple pleasures of bounty during peach season. She enjoyed her time in Clanton at the local fruit stand, she relished the interactions with everyone who passed through, enjoying the warmth of community and the smiles that filled her day.

Margaret's life was blessed with the companionship of her trusty dogs, with Bella being a recent and cherished friend. In her heart, she also held a special place for Peanut, Taco, and B.J. Margaret’s love extended beyond her immediate companions; she selflessly cared for a colony of feral cats, refusing to let any animal suffer from hunger under her watch.

In quieter moments, Margaret found joy in the nostalgia of old television shows. She was a devoted fan of "The Andy Griffith Show," displaying a remarkable ability to recite nearly every line, especially those featuring the delightful Earnest T. Bass. Her adventurous spirit took her outdoors, where she found happiness in activities like fishing, riding her golf cart, and embracing the beauty of nature. She even had a penchant for searching for loose change, often stopping her car at a moment’s notice to retrieve any stray coins glistening under the sunlight.

Above all else, Margaret cherished her family, especially her three grandsons, whom she adored and spent countless joyful hours with. They will remember her laughter, her wisdom, and her unwavering support—a legacy of love and strength that she gifted to the generations that follow.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, J.E. Thornton; brother-in-law, Roger Burton; sister-in-law, Rhonda Denise Williams.

She is survived by her husband of 17 years, Tommy Williams; son, James Collins Allen (Kim Stephens); daughter, Tamara Marie Bearden; grandsons, Coleton Bearden, Cameron Bearden and Cayden Bearden; step-grandaughter, Kaitlin Stephens; step-great-grandchildren, Jayden Langston and Addison Langston; brother, Wayne Allen; sisters, Mary "Nese" Burton and Melissa (Donald) Tyus; sister-in-law, Billie Ann Harris; her pup, Bella and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.

Funeral services will be Wednesday, January 21, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Jonathan "J.B." Brown and Bro. Ferrell Ford officiating in the chapel of Lawrence Brown-Service Funeral Home of Selma directing. Interment will follow at Pineview Memory Gardens in Valley Grande. Visitation will begin at the funeral home at 10:00 a.m., prior to the service.

Pallbearers will be Gary Maluda, Sonny Elmore, David Hulsey, Billy Green, Robert Green and Donald Tyus. Honorary pallbearers will be the Dallas County Sheriff's Department.

The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to Arabella Nursing Home, Traditions Hospice, and SouthernCare New Beacon Hospice for the immense compassion, professionalism, and loving care shown to Margaret during her transition.

Special thanks are also extended to her dear friend, Yvette Cook, whose visits and card games brought comfort, companionship, and joy during her time at the nursing home.

In lieu of flowers, you may consider making memorial donations to help offset the funeral costs on the funeral home website.