Frances Williams Hester

Ms. Frances Gail Williams Hester, age 72, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, peacefully departed this life on June 17, 2026, surrounded by the love, prayers, and cherished memories of those whose lives she so deeply touched. Frances was born on October 11, 1953, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, as the first daughter of Ruth K. Williams and James “Jimmy” Williams. She was a proud graduate of Howard High School, Class of 1971, and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, in 1975. Committed to lifelong learning and service, she later advanced her professional credentials by earning a master’s degree in education and an Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree. Frances was especially proud of her extensive knowledge of Black American history and literature. Frances was a woman of deep faith, remarkable strength, and boundless compassion. From an early age, she accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior and remained a faithful member of Greater Tucker Missionary Baptist Church. She served as a Sunday School teacher, choir member, and choir directress, and later continued her service through the church’s summer camp program. Frances devoted her life to serving children and families throughout the state of Tennessee. She began her career with the Department of Mental Health and later served with the Hamilton County Department of Education, giving more than 30 years of dedicated service. Throughout her professional career, Frances committed herself to the education, growth, and encouragement of others. Her work reflected not only her knowledge and discipline, but also her patience, generosity, and sincere desire to see those around her thrive. Frances was actively involved in school activities and served in various school-designated tutorial programs, including before-school, after-school, and summer programs. She also served for several years as a track and basketball coach at 21st Century, where she engaged children in a variety of athletic activities. A fierce competitor, she encouraged her students to give their very best in all they pursued. Frances found great joy in family, fellowship, and the simple blessings of gathering together. An excellent cook and gracious hostess, she made her home a place of warmth and welcome, where loved ones gathered for grand dinners, savory barbecues, intimate gatherings, music, laughter, and treasured moments that will be remembered for years to come. She truly cherished her family and blessed each of them with her love. Frances was preceded in death by her father, James “Jimmy” Williams, and her brother-in-law, Ronald Evans. She leaves to cherish her memory her sons, Benjamin Taaru Hester of Kearny, New Jersey, and Jamael Rashad Hester (Rashidah) of Atlanta, Georgia; and her grandchildren, Jordan Alyssa, Brandon Taaru, Lauren Aliyah, Ryan Imani, and Cameron Zuri. She is also survived by her mother, Ruth K. Williams; her siblings, Gregory Williams (Diana), Cornel Williams (Phyllis), James Williams (Donna), Emma Wilkerson, and Esterrell Evans; as well as several nieces and nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and many dear friends and acquaintances. A memorial service will be held for Frances on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at 12:00 noon in the Chapel of Taylor Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to The Hester Family Scholarship Fund, established with the Community Foundation of Greater Chattanooga. This scholarship fund honors Frances Williams Hester and her lifelong belief that a college education is central to achieving one’s boldest dreams, regardless of circumstance. https://cfgc.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=6082

Frances Williams Hester

October 11, 1953 - June 17, 2026