Claudia Mae Williams

BIOGRAPHY

Claudia Mae Williams was born in Athens, Georgia, USA, on 7 February 1915. In November 1931, at the age of 16, she married Russell Lee Williams. The couple welcomed a daughter, Marie, on 1 January 1933. She graduated from Albany State University in 1937.

In 1940, Williams relocated to River Rouge with her husband. Although Russell was employed by Chrysler, the couple purchased their first home in the neighborhood, becoming part of a growing and vibrant community of first-time homeowners. Williams worked as an elementary school teacher until her retirement. After settling in River Rouge, she went on to open Russell’s Restaurant in the 1950s. The restaurant initially served hamburgers, hot dogs, potato chips, and full-course dinners before later transforming into a penny store, where children could buy small treats.

In her free time, she was passionate about baking and prepared cakes to share with neighbors during the Christmas season. She played an active role in raising her grandchildren. According to them, she was always eager and willing to share the wisdom she had gained throughout her life.

On her 109th birthday, River Rouge Mayor William Campbell, along with firefighters and police officers, stopped by to celebrate her special day.

Williams passed away on 26 March 2025 in River Rouge, Michigan, USA, at the age of 110 years, 47 days.

RECOGNITION

Her age was verified by Eli Logan, and validated by LongeviQuest on 14 February 2025.

ATTRIBUTION

* “Happy 104th birthday Claudia Mae Williams” – Telegram Newspaper, February 2019

* “HAPPY 109TH BIRTHDAY MS. CLAUDIA WILLIAMS” – Telegram Newspaper, 1 February 2024

* “River Rouge woman celebrates her 109th birthday” – WDIV Local 4, 7 February 2024

* “A century and a decade of strength, love, and legacy” – The News Herald, 16 March 2025

GALLERY

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