Coretta Youlanda Williams Mujjumbi

Hello there! It's me, Coretta, or as many of you fondly knew me, Ceecee. I've decided to take a stab at writing my final farewell, a bit unconventional, I know, but then again, so was I. Born in the vibrant city of Springfield, MA on August 30, 1968, it was from there that my love for the arts was cultivated. I was witty, always ready with a cheeky rhyme or a catchy tune. My resilience was like a melody, it had a rhythm and pace of its own. I was talented, although I never quite saw it that way. My love for writing rhymes and music was not just a hobby, but a release, a dance of words on the page that echoed the rhythm in my heart.

Those who knew me well would nod in agreement when I say that the dance floor was my second home. The Big Boys and Elks club were my sanctuaries, the places where I could let loose and just be Ceecee. "Dance like nobody's watching," they say. Well, I did, and I absolutely loved it. My energy was infectious, my spirit irrepressible. I lit up every room I walked into, my laughter a familiar tune that could brighten the darkest of days. I loved the rhythm of Jamaican music, the way it flowed through me, setting my spirit ablaze.

But my greatest achievement, the most beautiful melody in the symphony of my life, was my family. My two beautiful daughters, Tamika Alexander and Danielle Mujjumbi, my radiant granddaughter Prada, and my jovial grandson Ethan, you were my pride and joy. Your love was my haven, a lullaby that soothed my soul. To my brothers and sister, Ace Williams, Rasheen Brown, Terrence Williams, Ray Little, and Celena Brown, you were the verses in my life’s song, each of you adding a unique rhythm that made our bond unbreakable. And to my beloved Matthew Otey, you were the harmony to my melody, the dance partner who matched my every step.

I am now reunited with my parents, Nelson Perry and Doris Williams, and my brothers Earl Williams and Hassan, a reunion that is bittersweet. To those I leave behind, remember me with joy, not sadness. Remember the love, the laughter, the music, and the dance. As Maya Angelou once said, "My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style." I hope I did just that.

Please take a moment to share your memories, photos, or a favorite tune we shared on my memorial page. Let's keep the music playing, the laughter echoing, and the love flowing. Here's to the dance of life, one that I was so privileged to be a part of.