Jean Williams (nee Ora Jean Rea), 89, died on October 2, 2015. Born in Sarepta, Mississippi, on July 14, 1924, she always enjoyed the fact that her birthday was on Bastille Day. She married the love of her life, James Braswell Williams of Matthews, North Carolina, in 1947. After settling in Norris in 1949, she first worked in Oak Ridge on the Nautilus Project and then spent most of her career with TVA at the Hydraulics Engineering Laboratory in Norris.

Family and friends knew her as Jean Terrific and admired her for her loving heart and generous nature; there was never a child or a pet that she didn't spoil. Jean was a woman of many talents. She was an outstanding baker, prided herself on her fine handwork, and made beautiful clothes for her daughters. After her retirement, she made dozens of quilts and traveled extensively with husband Jim. She was highly competitive and could beat almost everyone at Scrabble. Most importantly, she was a true Southern lady.

For nearly 60 years Jean was a devoted member of St. Francis Episcopal Church, where she taught Sunday School and was a member of the Altar Guild. She was also a member of the Norris Women's Club.

She is survived by her husband and their daughters Teresa (Ira Hozinsky) and Melissa (John) Tortora, three grandchildren, and a score of nieces and nephews.

Funeral and interment, followed by a reception, will be held at St. Francis Episcopal Church in Norris on Saturday, October 10th at 11:00 a.m.

Jean loved the good works of the Norris Food Pantry, St. Jude's Children's Hospital, and the Discretionary Fund at St. Francis. Donations to any of those or your favorite cause would be appreciated.

The family would like to thank their many friends and the devoted staff at Meadow View Senior Living Facility for their loving kindness and support during Jean's final days.

Holley Gamble Funeral Home in Clinton is in charge of all arrangements. holleygamble.com