Obituary for Letha Williams

Letha Rachel Williams, age 95, passed away peacefully on April 14, 2026, at her home in Bangor, California, surrounded by many of her loved ones -her happy place. Letha was born in Chandler, Oklahoma on September 21, 1930, to George and Iva Butler. She grew up in Lincoln County, Oklahoma and often shared memories of her childhood farm, robust family life, one-room schoolhouse, and the values she carried with her throughout her years. Letha later moved to Watsonville, CA where she was married to Winford Bartell on 3.30.1949. Together, they had 7 children. She worked as a florist growing plants and flowers as vibrant and colorful as the life she lived. Her children fondly recall how she would come home smelling of carnations. Letha later lost her first love and husband. She was fortunate enough to find love again, and married Raymond Williams on 1.26.1973. In December 1989, she and Ray settled in Bangor, CA. Letha had many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great- grandchildren, all of whom she adored and who adored her. She was known as “Grandma” far and wide - a name that extended well beyond her bloodline - and she was truly the heart of her family. Her home, especially the front porch, was a gathering place where everyone knew they were welcome. Letha was a remarkable woman who leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, grace, generosity, laughter, and a deep and meaningful sense of family.

Letha was preceded in death by her first husband, Winford Bartell; her second husband, Raymond Williams; her sons, Gary (Sue) Bartell, Larry (Judy) Bartell, and Bob Bartell; and her siblings, Marvin (Mary) Butler, Louis (Nieta) Butler, Lou Brumley, Stella (Tony) Borba, Rosie Treaster, Clara Butler, James (Margie) Butler, Rick (Linda) Butler, Lige (Martha) Butler, Amos (Dorothy), Henry (sis), and Andrew. She is survived by her son, Randy (Ann) Bartell; her daughters, Sharon (Henry) Gibson and Karen Kidder; her brother, Dean (the late Rose) Butler, and many grandchildren. Join us in celebrating Letha’s life at the Bangor Hall in Bangor, California, on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. Letha will be deeply missed and always cherished. May the legacy of her love and spunk, which radiated throughout her 95 years, live on in the many lives she had touched

Arrangements have been entrusted to Ramsey Funeral Home 530-534-3877