BIOGRAPHY

Valentina Williams was born in Lajas, Cienfuegos Province, Cuba, on 23 August 1909. She had four sisters and three brothers. In 1928, she moved to Youngstown, Ohio, where she attended what was then Youngstown College. At some point, she married James W. Williams, with whom she had six children: Conchita Hill, Coralia Keye, Constancia Raines, Carmelita Douglas, Henry, and James Williams. Her family later grew to include 17 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild. Her husband passed away on 9 October 1975.

Williams was a longtime resident of Youngstown, where she lived for over 90 years. She was the oldest living member of her church, St. Angela Merici, formerly known as Immaculate Conception. Throughout her life, she was actively involved in various organizations, volunteered extensively in her community, and dedicated herself to addressing the spiritual, physical, and emotional needs of others. An avid reader, she enjoyed staying informed about current events. She attributed her longevity to maintaining a healthy diet, engaging with the younger generation, embracing adaptability, and placing her trust in God’s hands.

Williams passed away in Youngstown, Ohio, USA, on 18 October 2019, at the age of 110 years, 56 days.

RECOGNITION

Her age was listed as a pending validation by the Latin American Supercentenarians (LAS) as of January 2020.

ATTRIBUTION

* “Youngstown woman born in 1909 celebrates 108th birthday” – WYTV, 27 August 2017

* “Ceremony honors Ohio woman turning 110” – Washington Times, 17 August 2019

* Valentina Williams Obituary – L.E. Black, Phillips & Holden Funeral Home

GALLERY