DECATUR, ILLINOIS (Herald & Review), December 27, 2004:
Wileva Williams' mother lived to be 101 years old, and she hopes to pass that milestone, too.
"As long as I'm still in my right mind," she said with a laugh.
The 86-year-old Williams is showing no signs of slowing down; she was honored in July with Arthur's first Humanitarian of the Year award.
Most of Williams' friends refer to her as the Energizer Bunny - she keeps going and going.
"Wileva has always been a vivacious and outgoing lady involved in so many things," said Ann Singer.
"It's remarkable for someone her age how busy she stays."
Singer said she shook her head one day when Williams told her that she was thinking about slowing down. But then Williams realized it was her turn to drive a group of ladies to Sullivan to attend a water aerobics class.
William shies away from being in the spotlight - but has a problem saying no - whether it's being the designated driver to an event, being treasurer for the local American Legion Auxiliary since 1983 or helping make quilts for soldiers.
She loves serving refreshments to children at Vine Street Christian Church, where she is a longtime member. And every Tuesday, she enjoys rounding up residents into the dining room of a local nursing home for an evening prayer worship service.
"Wileva has a lot of energy and is always on the move," said the Rev. Michael Johnson of Vine Street Christian Church.
"A couple of months ago, our custodian got sick, and we put teams together to help clean up the church. Wileva was there doing anything that needed to be done. She helps with church dinners, bazaars and is always there to help out. She inspires others," he said.
"I have known Wileva for about 50 years, and she is such a nice lady. She just loves working in the community," said another friend, Mary Dillon.
Williams retired in 1983 after working as a secretary for the oil division of Progress Industries in Arthur. Her husband, Virgil, died in 1995.
She has two children, four grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren and a 4-year-old great great-grandson.
"I just try to keep busy, and I enjoy it," she said with a grin.
By Sheila Smith, Staff Writer
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