Daisy Mary (Federighi) Williams |
| Posted 2018-08-03 by Judy Wight Branson |
| The Daily Courier, Prescott, Arizona Sunday, May 27, 2018, page 10a Daisy Federighi Williams passed away on May 6, 2018. She was a beautiful, spirited woman of great intellect, elegance and character, whose moral compass never wavered. Graciousness was a hallmark of her personality, which made her a natural hostess. She was fluent in both Spanish and Italian. Her proficiency in Spanish enabled her to fully participate in organizations such as the Arizona Mexico Commission and events that involved the city governments of Douglas and Agua Prieta during her husband’s tenure as mayor of Douglas. Daisy was born in Clarkdale, Arizona, on April 20, 1928. She attended St. Joseph’s Academy in Prescott through high school, and then attended Mount St. Mary’s College in Los Angeles for two years before transferring to the University of Arizona. It was there she met her future husband, Ben Williams Jr., to whom she was married for 62 years. Their long-term marriage served as a beautiful lesson in commitment and devotion. Her priorities were self-evident — her family and Catholic faith. She taught CCD for 30 years, an experience which brought her great fulfillment. Her love and devotion to her family were fierce, and she inspired in her children a steadfast love and respect for each other. She delighted in her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and was always eager to hear about their latest accomplishment or humorous story of their antics. Her civic commitment was demonstrated as she volunteered her time as member of the Board of Directors of the Southeastern Arizona Heart Association, board member of the Arizona Preservation Foundation, Arizona Town Hall participant, member of the Advisory Board of the Johnson Foundation which was responsible for the restoration of the Slaughter (San Bernardino) Ranch, Precinct Committeewoman, and the Cochise County co-chairman for the re-election of Barry Goldwater. Due to Daisy’s modesty, few knew of her talents and accomplishments. She was a gifted musician with a beautiful singing voice who delighted her children as she played the piano or, after much pleading, the accordion. Her interest in music and the arts led to her involvement with Community Concert Association, National Society of Arts and Letters, and Arizona Opera League. She was a voracious reader who treasured her extensive library. Bridge was another lifelong passion at which she excelled. Her move to the Terraces in February 2014 allowed her to continue to pursue her favorite pastime with her dear friend, Jane, and develop new friendships she deeply valued. Daisy’s passing leaves a deep void in the hearts of her family who loved her so dearly, but also an example of the finest qualities to be instilled in the generations to follow. Daisy was predeceased by her parents, Erminia and Emil Federighi; and her only sibling, Emil John Federighi. Survivors include her four children, Liz (Jim) Boyd, Diane Belcher, Katie (Todd) Braun and Ben Williams, III; grandchildren, Beth (Shannon) Eastridge, Katy Boyd, Kathleen (Blane) Lochridge, Kristin Boyd, Natalie and Pierce Braun; great- grandchildren, Emma, Devin, Trinity and Benjamin Eastridge, and Clare and Nina Lochridge. The family wishes to thank Dr. Kim Johnson, Father John Hannigan and members of the Terraces Wellness Center: Artelia Mack and Marlene Valiente and caregivers, Valerie, Ramona, Monica, Anna, Meg, Yoley and Toya. Their loving care and attention made the last few months of Daisy’s life easier and more enjoyable. Sage Hospice and private caregivers Amelia, Leilani, Susie and Marta helped keep Daisy and her family comfortable and secure as she transitioned into her next life. A private funeral mass was held for Daisy with only her immediate family in attendance, as per her wishes. Those wishing to make contributions in her honor may do so to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the Wounded Warrior Project, or the charity of their choice. Information provided by survivors. |
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