SR0608 103RD GENERAL ASSEMBLY

SR0608 LRB103 34967 MST 64859 r

SENATE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois Senate are saddened to learn of the death of Orlantha N. "Ninette" Williams, who passed away on September 30, 2023; and

WHEREAS, Orlantha Williams was born to Orlando Smith and Anna Walker Williams on July 29, 1958; her childhood was marked by the resounding sound of her laughter, and she carried that radiant spirit with her throughout her life; she was a beloved student at the Catholic all-girls high school, Unity High School, Class of 1976, located on the south side of Chicago in the Chatham community; she was a shining example of the Unity High School spirit; it was during her time at Unity that she formed enduring friendships and was known as "Orrie"; she left an indelible mark on her peers and teachers; her mother remarried Roosevelt Williams, who loved her and her mother deeply; and

WHEREAS, Orlantha Williams excelled academically, setting a standard of excellence that inspired those around her; but it was not just her academic achievements that set her apart, it was her warm and caring personality that endeared her to everyone she met; and

WHEREAS, Orlantha Williams touched the lives of many, leaving a legacy of kindness, love, and joy; Christmas will never be the same at the Garden Mission on Canal Street in Chicago without her; she never wavered in wanting the women and children of the Mission to experience a beautiful and joyous Christmas, and she was always willing to make that happen for them no matter what it took; and

WHEREAS, Orlantha Williams was a truly remarkable soul who touched the lives of countless people with her boundless love, infectious laughter, and unwavering positivity; she possessed a rare and extraordinary gift, an immense capacity to love and spread joy wherever she went; she truly understood the meaning of love and the importance of a smile; she had an infectious laugh that could light up even the darkest of days; her heart was always open, and her smile was ever-present; and

WHEREAS, Orlantha Williams became a caregiver for many elderly, and she loved them and cared for them as if they were her own family; one of the most remarkable aspects of her life was her unwavering commitment to others; she had a heart that knew no bounds, always extending her love to those in need regardless of her circumstances; and

WHEREAS, Orlantha Williams was preceded in death by her father, Roosevelt Williams; her birth father, Orlando; and her brother, Roosevelt Williams Jr.; and

WHEREAS, Orlantha Williams is survived by her niece, Miranda "Noodle"; her uncle, Joe; her cousins, Lisa and Marcena; and numerous other family members and friends; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE ONE HUNDRED THIRD GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we mourn the passing of Orlantha N. "Ninette" Williams and extend our sincere condolences to her family, friends, and all who knew and loved her; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the family of Orlantha Williams as an expression of our deepest sympathy.