Joyce "Darlene" Williams, known lovingly as "Mamaw" to her grandchildren, passed away July 20, 2026 at her home in Benton, Arkansas. Born on November 5, 1943, in Little Rock, Arkansas, Darlene lived a life full of love, laughter, and an unwavering devotion to the people she held dear.

Darlene built a career in banking at Union Bank before venturing into business ownership, operating three Curves for Women locations. She was also a talented piano player whose music brought joy to those around her. But no matter what she accomplished professionally, Darlene always put God first and her family second, and everyone who knew her understood that about her.

If you knew Darlene, you knew she loved to cook, and she never once followed a recipe. Whatever she made just turned out right, and her kitchen was always a place where people gathered. She was happiest when she was hosting family get-togethers at their home or out on the houseboat, aptly named "Fast Enuff." That name was pure Darlene. Anytime the family was out on the party barge or ski boat and things picked up speed, she could always be heard saying, "That's fast enough!" She also loved to travel with friends and family, and she never missed a chance to decorate for the holidays, turning every season into something special.

Darlene loved all her grandchildren dearly, but her granddaughters were her pride and joy. She spoiled every one of them, and she spoiled her kids too. She was the kind of mom who wanted you to call her and tell her about your day, and she was always there as a listening ear whenever any of her family needed one. Her favorite thing to say, after someone told her they loved her, was simply, "Love you more."

Throughout her life, Darlene was a faithful member of Sharon Missionary Baptist Church and was also blessed to call Unity in Paron, Oak Grove, and Spring Creek a church home. Her deep and abiding faith carried her through every season of life, and her family finds comfort knowing she rests now in the arms of her Savior.

Darlene is survived by her husband, Arvin Williams; her daughters, Jeana Kelley (Rob Kelley) and Monda Parsley (Steve Parsley); and her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Love you more, Always

Visitation will be Wednesday, July 22nd at Ashby Funeral Home from 4-6 pm.

Funeral service will be at Sharon Missionary Baptist Church in Benton on Thursday, July 23rd at 10:00 am with burial to follow at Fowler cemetery in Paron, Arkansas.