Esther Williams

February 7, 1939 – February 20, 2026

Esther Williams, age 87, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, devotion, and family.

Born on February 7, 1939, Esther was the beloved wife of Robert John Williams, whom she met in Baltimore, Maryland — the city that remained her lifelong home. They shared nearly 60 years of marriage before his passing in 2025, building a life rich in commitment, faith, and deep connection.

Esther was a devoted mother to Sharon Elizabeth Chinn, Robert Michael Williams, and Mary Lisa Williams, and a caring mother-in-law to Raymond Chinn. She was also a proud grandmother — known as "Yaya" — to Andrew and Alex Chinn. She centered her life around her children and their activities, taking a genuine interest in what mattered most to them and supporting them wholeheartedly.

The youngest of five children born to Greek immigrant parents, Panagiota and Michael Bates, Esther was reunited with her cherished siblings — Emily Koulepis, Samuel Bates, Mary Cross, and Emanuel "Mike" Bates — with whom she remained close throughout their lives.

In addition to her children and grandchildren, Esther is survived by her nieces Patricia Zentz and Ginger Bates White; her nephew James Koulepis; her godson Michael Kosmas; and many cousins, great-nieces and great-nephews. She was preceded in death by her faithful godson Jonathan Woodstock and her dear nephew Steve Bates.

Drawing, painting, and sewing were lifelong passions that Esther returned to again and again over the years. Family holidays and beach trips to Ocean City were among the greatest joys of her life. These traditions became treasured memories and stories that will be shared for generations. In later years, Esther especially enjoyed traveling and spending meaningful time with her children and grandchildren.

Esther was a faithful member of St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church and maintained a strong connection to her Greek heritage and traditions. She passed away in Waxhaw, North Carolina, held in the love of her family.

She will be remembered for her warmth, her fire, and her creativity. Esther embodied the importance of family and staying close, a value she hoped would continue throughout the lives of her loved ones.

Visitation will be held on Friday, February 27, 2026 , 4-7 PM, with a Trisagion Service to be held at 5 PM at the family owned Ruck- Towson Funeral Home, Inc., 1050 York Road (at beltway exit 26) . Mrs. Williams will lie in state at The St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, 2504 Cub Hill Road, Parkville, Maryland 21234 on Saturday, February 28, 2026 from 12 Noon to 12:30 PM, with the service beginning at 12:30 PM.  Interment St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church Cemetery.