Myrna Rose Williams

Born in June, 1939, in Bridgeport, Nebraska, to the late Willard and Wilma (McMillan) McFall, Myrna moved with her family as a toddler to Newberg, Oregon, where she and her sister, Sharon, grew into adulthood. At the age of eight, Myrna asked Jesus into her heart, beginning a lifelong personal faith that served as the guiding light for every chapter of her life. After graduating from Newberg High School in 1957, Myrna attended Northwest Nazarene College and George Fox College, before earning her Bachelor's Degree in Sociology and Psychology from Pasadena College (now Point Loma Nazarene University). She then earned her teaching certificate from Oregon State University. On August 14, 1965, Myrna married the love of her life, Kenneth Williams, in Newberg, Oregon. Following their marriage, they lived in Newberg and Coos Bay – where Myrna began her teaching career – before settling in the Forest Grove community in 1973. Myrna spent decades teaching second and third graders at Cornelius Elementary School until her retirement in 2000, touching the lives of countless young students with her encouragement, creativity, and renowned pilgrim productions. Myrna was active, outgoing, and truly the life of the party wherever she went. In high school, she enjoyed playing volleyball and basketball, and played tennis throughout her life. Summer was her favorite season—she loved swimming in the pool, boating, trips to the beach, and soaking in the warm sunshine. In their retirement, Myrna and Ken traveled extensively, exploring destinations across Europe, Asia, and throughout the United States. She also loved playing games and was blessed with many wonderful, lifelong friends with whom she shared much laughter. A devout Christian whose faith was integral to every aspect of her life, Myrna possessed an incredibly generous heart. Despite raising a busy family as a working mother, she found time to serve in her church, her community, and those around her. Her home was a haven for those who needed a short term or long term living solution, and the holidays were full of guests around the table. Myrna was deeply involved in the lives of her children and grandchildren, always attending their events, cheering them on, and planning fun, memorable activities. She was proud of each one, celebrated their unique interests and talents, and was a prayer warrior for them all to the end. Myrna is survived by her children: Ryan Williams and his wife, Shawnna; Brennan Williams and his wife, Kirsten; Keanan Williams and his wife, Kona; and Meagan Bozeman and her husband, Aaron. She leaves behind her sister, Sharon Wiltshire; and her eight beloved grandchildren: Lauren and Reagan; Elin, Josiah and Ezekiel; Jeffery; and Tenley and Brooklynne. She also leaves behind many dear friends who will forever cherish her vibrant spirit. Myrna was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, Kenneth M. Williams, who passed away on January 19, 2022, as well as her parents, Willard and Wilma McFall. A celebration of life will be held on August 29th at 1:00pm at Crossroads Church in Forest Grove, Oregon.

Myrna Rose Williams

June 7, 1939 - July 23, 2026