Louise Carpenter Williams

Louise C. Williams, 83, passed peacefully to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on November 6, 2024 surrounded by her loving family. Born in Philadelphia, PA, she was the daughter of the late Eugene Rowe and Eleanor Anna Carpenter. Following her father’s passing in 1943, she was raised by her stepfather, Edwin Bender, Jr whom she called Dad. She graduated from Yeadon High School in 1959 where she was a cheerleader, President of Student Council, member of The National Honor Society and many other school activities. After high school, she attended Drexel University where she was on Dean’s List and a cheerleader. Louise spent much of her career with two investments advisory firms: first in Atlanta, GA, then fifteen years in metropolitan Washington, DC.  

Love and deep devotion between Louise and husband Arthur Graeme were the heart of their wonderful life together. Their relationship began as 16 yr old high school sweethearts and flourished into a beautiful 61-year marriage where they were happiest when together. After their retirement, they settled in Lancaster, PA. 

Louise’s deep faith and commitment to Christ was the epicenter of her life. As a teenager, she taught Sunday School to young children at Yeadon Presbyterian Church. Louise served as church secretary at Grove United Methodist Church while living in West Chester, PA. Upon retirement, Louise and Art became active members of First United Methodist Church, Lancaster, PA. There, Louise was involved in several programs, serving as a Stephen Minister, on the Staff Parish Committee, serving breakfast to the community at Anchor Lancaster, and enjoyed quilting and hosting fellowship time.  

Louise was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother whose love, warmth and kindness left a lasting impression on everyone she touched. In her spare time, she loved gardening, nature, travel (to include hiking Europe and her ancestral Switzerland), tennis, cycling, cooking and most of all, family and friends. Throughout her life she had a talent and love of writing. Her many notes and cards were sent with affection and joy. Louise adored and spoiled all family pets, to include her grand pets. Playing board games with her grandchildren was a favorite as it emphasized laughter, smiles and so much family fun. Louise genuinely loved nature, particularly during trips to remote Kodiak, AK and Tanzania, Africa viewing wildlife; and is reflected in one of her favorite passages from the Bible, Isaiah 6:3: And they were calling to one another: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory.” 

Louise is survived by daughter, Heather Lee, of Virginia Beach, VA; son, Douglas Arthur, husband of Beth of Charlotte, NC, granddaughter Addison and grandson Finnegan. Also surviving are Louise’s sister-in-law Jacqueline, wife of Harold Powell. Louise is predeceased by her brother Kenneth Eugene Carpenter, husband of Eileen. 

Louise led a meaningful, loving and active life and she touched so many with her warm, genuine and tender personality. She will be profoundly missed. Her family wishes to sincerely thank the nurses and staff of Cedar Brook at Willow Valley for their compassionate care of Louise during her stay. 

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life Service for Louise at First United Methodist Church, 29 E Walnut Street, Lancaster, PA 17602 on Friday, December 13, 2024; Visitation 12:00p; Service 1:00p. A reception will follow the Celebration of Life. Interment will be private at Hopewell United Methodist Church Cemetery.  To view the service virtually, please click the following link:  https://my.gather.app/remember/louise-williams-2024

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Louise’s memory may be made to: The Salvation Army, P.O. Box 868, Lancaster, PA 17608-0868; and First United Methodist Church, 29 E. Walnut St, Lancaster, PA 17602.