Alta Jean Williams

Alta Williams, was born Alta Jean Thornton on June 24,1936 to parents Harry and Lucille Thornton, who resided in Harlem, New York. Alta is survived by daughter, Tamre Clark and son, Kedar Thornton; two grandchildren, Brittany and Justin; three great-grandchildren, Aubrey, Josiah, and Kori; a brother, Clifford Thornton; three nephews, William "Billy," Anthony, and Nkosi; a niece, Afiya; a sister in law, Renee; and countless friends and admirers. Alta was one of six children: William (deceased), Lucille V. (deceased), Harry S. (deceased), Betty (deceased), and Clifford. The family attended Mount Moriah Baptist Church. Later in life, Alta worshiped at Faith Temple New Hope Church in East Orange, New Jersey. Alta was academically talented and placed in honors courses throughout her schooling. She graduated from Julia Richman Commercial High School. Smart and stylish, Alta worked hard and continually surpassed the high goals she set for her career and personal life. In 1954 Alta married Robert Williams and brought her dream home in Bergen County, New Jersey where they raised their daughter Tamre and her son Kedar. Alta had a distinguished career as a legal secretary, working for political giants like New York Senator Jacob Javits and music icons like the Isley Brothers and Ray, Goodman, & Brown, during her employment at Polydor Records. At the height of her legal career, she was awarded the Certified Sales Award - gold album, in special recognition for her contributions to the hit album that appropriately included the song, "Special Lady." A special lady indeed, Alta was a devoted daughter, caring for her parents as they aged, dedicated mother to her children Tamre and Kedar, loving companion to her Julius Burton, aka Jim Dandy, good counsel to her siblings, caretaker for her sisters during their most vulnerable and dire times of need, and doting grandmother and aunty. A fashionista, Alta was always well dressed and embraced life fully. She loved 1960s R&B and bright colors, with yellow being her favorite color, she even had a yellow car. In her earlier years, Alta hosted numerous parties for family and friends. She surrounded herself with beauty in her home and in inspirational quotes she displayed on the wall of her bedroom. An entrepreneur, Alta started “Sunny Inspirations”, a floral arrangement and interior decorating business, and “Alta’s Personal Secretarial Services.” Alta had many hobbies. Before her health began to fail, she generously volunteered time to local and presidential elections. Although Alta was not known for her cooking, she was proud of her mastery of lasagna which she was eager to share with family and friends, especially during holiday get-togethers. The world is a duller place without Alta Williams, but we were blessed to have been touched by her beauty, love, kindness, and wisdom. We will miss her spirit of goodness.

Alta Jean Williams

December 2, 2021