Jonesboro-Mary Elizabeth Williams, 83, passed away Sunday, June 21, 2026 at Monette Manor. She was born in Jonesboro on March 19, 1943 where she was raised and attended Holy Angels Academy. She later earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Administrative Services from Arkansas State University. On March 6, 1966 she married Cecil Alvin Williams, Sr., and the couple made their home in Marked Tree where Cecil was raised. Following the early passing of her husband, she returned to Jonesboro to raise her family and resided there for the remainder of her life. She was a proud member of The Red Hats Society, Mary’s Heart Ladies of Blessed Sacrament, and a volunteer for St. Bernard’s.

She is survived by her two children, Connie Veteto of Jonesboro and Cecil Williams Jr. of Hoover, AL; six grandchildren, Jessica Miles, Tristan Veteto, Hannah Williams, Zachary Veteto, Madison Williams, and Avery Williams; and three great-grandchildren, Hudson Miles, Silvia Veteto and Ryder Veteto.

Mary Beth was a determined and resilient woman. She faced many trials throughout her life but was always the first to offer a hand to someone in need. Her biggest joy in life was spending time with those she loved, especially her children and grandchildren.

She remained active into her early 80s and could often be found attending Mass, volunteering, shopping around town, clipping coupons, and tending to her yard or watching for cardinals in her birdfeeders. She also enjoyed participating in her local water aerobics and Zumba classes. Anyone who had the pleasure of knowing her will remember her loving spirit and unmistakable personality. She loved her family dearly and, more than anything, wished to leave lasting memories with those she held close. Keep her family and friends in your heart and when a sweet memory crosses your mind, keep her wish alive by sharing stories of her contagious energy and undeniable spunk.

She will be deeply missed and forever kept in our hearts.

In her final days, she provided comfort to those around her and reassured them, saying, “I’m okay. The Lord is with me.” We find comfort in the hope that she has been reunited in heaven with her husband, Cecil Alvin Williams, Sr.; her brothers, Joe and Bill Murphy; and her parents Charles and Mary Cecilia (Gatz) Murphy.

A Rosary and visitation will be held at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church Wednesday, June 24, 2026 beginning at 5:30 pm. A mass of Christian burial will be held Thursday, June 25, 2026 at 11 am at the church.

She will be laid to rest in Holy Cross Cemetery under the direction of Gregg-Langford Bookout Funeral Home.

Pallbearers will be David Veteto, Tristan Veteto, Zachary Veteto, Jeremy Manis, Clint Miles, and Michael Goad. Honorary pallbearer will be Sid McHaffey.