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About Portland observer. (Portland, Or.) 1970-current | View Entire Issue (June 8, 2022)
June 08, 2022 Page 11 Obituary In Loving Memory Willis O. ‘Bill’ Allen Willis O. “Bill” Allen, died May 24, 2022. Funeral services will be held Friday, June 17 at 1 p.m. at Rose City Cemetery and Fu- neral Home, 5625 N.E. Fre- mont St. Viewing is scheduled for one hour prior to the ser- vice, beginning at noon. MICHAEL HAPER Agent 9713 S.W. Capitol, Portland, OR 503-221-3050 • Fax 503-227-8757 Providing Insurance and Financial Services Restoring People to Restore Place In Loving Memory of Essie Williams Essie Williams was born Oct. 5, 1937 in Canton, Miss. to the late Ollie Bell Sanders and Lawrence Lewis. She moved to Portland at the age of 7, attending Chapman Elementary and graduating from Roosevelt High School. In 1963, Essie married Rich- ard Williams and to this union came three children Alonzo, Robert, and Makeesha. In 2003, she retired from Na- bisco after a long and tenured career where she was admired and loved by her coworkers. Working at Nabisco was espe- cially a treat for her grandchil- dren who loved it when she'd bring home fresh baked cookies. Essie enjoyed playing cards, listening to BB King, catch- ing up on the latest news, and faithfully watching the Portland Trail Blazers, cheering them on win or lose. She especially enjoyed spending quality time with her family. Essie spoke enthusiasti- cally about all of her grandchil- dren and great-grandchildren, sharing news about all of their accomplishments and successes. She was known for her words of wisdom which derived from her reverence in God. Her heart went into everything she did; from creating the best turkey & dressin’ in the family to hosting family and friends during the holidays. She was always fash- ionably dressed and known for her exquisite taste in suits and high heels. In 2017, Essie was diagnosed with cancer. She battled the disease with the love and sup- port of her family. Her daugh- ter, Makeesha, went to every doctor’s visit. Although it was a tough fight, Essie remained positive, never complained and had amazing determination. Her faith carried her far beyond the doctor’s expectations. God had the final say. We will remember Essie for many things: her loving nature, her kind heart, and her beautiful smile. No judgment, no stress, just warmth and love – and that was Essie. Essie leaves to cherish her memory and forever hold her in their hearts, her sister Bernice Robertson; daughter Makeesha; grandson Mer- vonce; granddaughters Alexx- is, La’Princia, Passion’L and Dawn; great-grandchildren Karter, Kolby and James Jr.; as well as a host of nieces, neph- ews, relatives and friends. She was a foster parent to five ad- ditional children who she loved dearly, Monica, Bridget, Tony, Tyrone, and Derrick (who pre- ceded her in death). She was preceded in death by her mother and father, her husband, and sons Alonzo and Robert. Advertise with diversity in The Portland Observer Call 503-288-0033 or email ads@portlandobserver.com This Juneteenth Join us as we come together in CELEBRATION OF COMMUNITY Juneteenth Oregon June 18th & 19th Lillis -A lbina Park Learn how we are connecting people—of all education and skill levels—with living wage jobs, and new careers through mentorship, workforce development and opportunity. Portland , OR 97227 ( N . Flint / N . Russell ) www . juneteenthor . com We want to see our community stay safe and healthy during the COVID-19 pandemic. Please: Black Health Matters North by Northeast Community Health Center is the only clinic in Oregon devoted to African American health. We provide welcoming, high quality health care to adults who have Oregon Health Plan. Since 2006, our priority has been to serve the local African American community and to reduce the deadly effects of high blood pressure and diabetes. We are accepting new patients, and if you’re uninsured, we can help you get covered! To make an appointment or learn about our services, contact us: www.nxneclinic.org (503) 287-4932 714 NE Alberta Street Portland, Oregon 97211 Protect yourself and others by getting the COVID-19 vaccine (and booster when you are eligible). Call us at (503) 287-4932 to schedule a vaccine appointment. Wear a well-fitting mask over your mouth and nose, ideally a surgical, N95 or KN95 mask.
