Zena Williams

Zena Lee Williams, affectionately known to those who loved her as “Princess Warrior”, passed away on September 19, 2026, at William Newton Hospital in Winfield, Kansas.  She was 94 years old.

Born on May 15, 1932, in Roscoe, Missouri, Zena’s life was defined by a deep and abiding commitment to education. She earned her Master’s Degree in Elementary Education from Western State College in Gunnison, Colorado. Over the course of a remarkable thirty-six year teaching career, she devoted herself to her second grade students, shaping countless young minds with patience, wit, and an exacting standard she held for herself and inspired in others. 

Those who knew Zena remember her as intelligent and witty, honest to her core, and a perfectionist in the very best sense of the word. She brought that same dedication to the things that brought her joy. She loved to read, to cook, and to explore the world through travel, and she never lost her enthusiasm for a good shopping trip. 

Even in retirement, Zena’s love of learning did not fade. She continued to serve her community as a library aide and a classroom aide, giving of her time and knowledge to a new generation of students long after her formal career had ended. 

A devout Christian, Zena was a faithful member of the First United Methodist Church, where her strong faith sustained and guided her throughout her life. She lived with grace and purpose, trusting always in the promise of the Lord. 

She was preceded in death by the love of her life and husband, Thomas J. Williams. 

Zena is survived by her daughter, Jalaine Richardson, and her son, Wade Williams  She is also survived by three grandchildren, Renee McGlynn (Grahm), Chad Williams (Kylee), Kalen Ledbetter (Colin),  and seven great grandchildren: Emersyn, Emmie, Benny Wade, Allison, Gavin, Oran, and Yves.

Rest well, Princess Warrior. Your work here was faithfully and beautifully done.

Memorial graveside services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, September 25, at Caldwell Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Caldwell Historical Society and sent in care of the mortuary.