Portia A. (Smith) Williams

Mrs. Portia A. (Smith) Williams, age 56, of Utica, passed away on Friday, April 25, 2008 at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center with her family by her side. Born in Utica on August 28, 1951, Portia was the daughter of the late William A. and Josephine A. (Corio) Smith. Raised and educated in Utica, she was a graduate of Utica Free Academy. She furthered her studies at the Utica School of Beauty Culture and earned her credentials as a licensed cosmetologist. At one time, she was married to Michael Terminio. Portia was employed by the Chicago-Pneumatic Tool Co. as a secretary, and she worked as a beautician at area salons. She also assisted at her father’s establishment, the Outside Inn, where she was a hostess. She dedicated many years to raising her children and caring for her home. In 1986 she married Thomas Williams, Jr. As a well-matched couple, they loved each other and their commitment to their families, and as a mother, she embraced her new family with much love. Blessed with a generous spirit, Portia was outgoing and her personality was so admired, welcoming, and comfortable. She was a family person who knew how to care for those in need. Among her hobbies, she was an avid bowler participating in many leagues throughout the years. A woman who possessed artistic talents, she also had a ‘green thumb’, and many plants and flowers flourished under her care. Animals knew her kind persona and were very attracted to her. Along with her husband and children, she loved camping and especially loved to fish. Portia is survived by her husband, Tom; her children and their families, Joelle M. (Terminio) and Vincent Crescenzo of Watertown, Thomas III and Barbara Williams of MI, Timothy V. Williams and Rachael Gaia of TN, and Tammy L. Williams of Utica; and her grandchildren, Thomas IV, Miranda; Amanda and Michelle; and Marissa. Survivors also include her brothers and sisters-in-law, George Smith of P.R., Robert and Jean Smith of Utica, and Michael and Deborah Smith of Westmoreland; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws, Betty Johntson, Pat James, Nancy Williams, Sherry and Roger Cheney and Wayne Williams. The family expresses appreciation to the entire staff of the 6th floor at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center for their outstanding care of Portia as well as their support of her entire family; and Dr. Samir Desai, and Dr. Mathew Ulahannan for their many years of professional care and compassion Visitation will be held Sunday from 2:00-5:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Portia’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Sunday afternoon at 5:00 at the funeral home immediately upon conclusion of visitation.

Portia A. (Smith) Williams

August 28, 1951 - April 25, 2008