Obituary of Carren N. Williams

Carren Williams, 68, passed away peacefully on Tuesday March 3, 2026. 

One of the true measures of a life is found in the love shared, the family nurtured, and the many people welcomed as friends. Carren lived her life with warmth, generosity, and faith, making every person who knew her feel seen, loved, and cared for.  She passed away leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories and the deep love of those who knew her.

Carren was a deeply loving daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and friend.  As a dedicated divorced single mother of three, Carren poured her heart into raising her daughters. She was their greatest supporter, never missing a school play, concert, or performance. Her presence in the audience was constant and reassuring, a reflection of the deep pride she carried for her girls.  Her daughters remember her as the mom who always said yes—to one more camp, one more dance class, one more friend over, one more music lesson, one more classic movie, one more song, one more story, and always one more hug or kiss.

Her love only multiplied as her family grew.  She cherished her nine grandchildren and great-grandsons and was one of their biggest fans. Whether it was a sporting event, dance recital, pageant, or school activity, she made every effort to be there, cheering them on with the same enthusiasm and pride she showed her daughters.

She found great joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved playing card games and Monopoly with family, traveling, hosting fun slumber parties for her daughters, and planning themed gatherings and celebrations for members of the congregation. She had a gift for hosting memorable dinners and elaborate meals that brought people together and created lasting memories.

Carren had a lifelong passion for food, hospitality, and bringing people together. She began her career in food service at Canopy’s in Rochester, New York, where her strong work ethic and natural talent quickly became evident. She later followed in her family’s entrepreneurial spirit by launching her own catering business, Carren’s Carte, where she shared her love of cooking and entertaining with others. She eventually transitioned into several food service management roles, continuing to do what she loved—serving others and creating welcoming spaces around the table.

Her home was truly a place of retreat and joy for many. Carren was the ultimate caretaker, opening her doors to family and friends who needed a place to stay or a good meal.  For many, her home became a second home—filled with laughter, conversation, and love.

Above all, she was a faithful servant of Jehovah. As one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, her faith was the foundation of her life. She found great joy in sharing the Bible’s message of hope with others and especially loved cart witnessing. Her faith guided her actions and strengthened her spirit.

As written at Acts 20:35, “There is more happiness in giving than there is in receiving.” Carren truly lived by these words, giving freely of her time, love, and heart to everyone around her.  Her life was a beautiful example of generosity, faith, and unconditional love.

Carren was preceded in death by her father Arthur and her brother William.  She will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered by her mother Laura, her daughters LaShaunda (Ifeanyi), Traci (Derek), Camielle (Tonde), her grandchildren Karli, Alex, Jermaine, James, Leila, Bianca, Laura, Aaron, Kalani, great-grandsons Mason and Ja’Kai, nieces Yanik (Fred), Tishara, Erin, aunts, cousins, extended family, congregation members, and the many friends who were blessed to know her. 

The family will receive visitors Saturday, March 21, from 3-6 p.m. at Paul W. Harris Funeral Home, 570 Kings Hwy S, Rochester, NY 14617.  Those wishing to pay their respects and celebrate her life are welcomed. 

A short funeral service will also take place as follows:

• 5:30 PM – 5:40 PM: Loved ones are welcome to share brief memories, reflections, or statements (1–2 minutes each) in honor of Carren.
• 5:40 PM – 5:55 PM: A short talk offering words of encouragement and support for family and friends.

A streaming link is available (CLICK HERE) beginning at 5:30 PM for those unable to attend in person.