Miriam was born on May 4, 1933, in Staten Island, New York, to Arthur Joseph Barrett and Blanche Loomis Barrett. During her teenage years, she experienced numerous adventures exploring the vibrant city of New York. Alongside her explorations, Miriam worked as an administrative assistant, developing skills and memories that would stay with her throughout her life.
In February 1952, at the age of 18, Miriam relocated to the Hilton Village area of Newport News, Virginia. It was there that she met Leo Williams, and the two were united in marriage on June 5, 1954. Miriam and Leo shared not only a loving marriage of 65 years but also a business partnership. Together, they founded and operated their own advertising agency, Impact Ad Group, Inc., where they worked side by side for 26 years. Miriam was a faithful member of Mount Carmel Catholic Church and attended mass every Saturday.
Miriam was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Leo Williams, as well as her father, mother, and brother Edward James Barrett. She is survived by her four children: Leah W. Shearin and her husband Doug; Caron W. Riley and her husband Freddie; Susan W. O’Connell; and Berkley L. Williams, her brothers Arthur Joseph Barrett Jr and George Ross.
Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Christopher Shearin, Lara Overy, Melanie Walton, Brandon Honeycutt, Cristen Treu, Andrew O’Connell, Patrick O’Connell, Katherine O’Connell, John Williams, and Daniel Williams. Miriam’s family also includes eight great-grandchildren, three great-great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews who cherish her memory.
Miriam has been an active member of the Newport News Warwick Chapter of the DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution) since February 5, 2005, which she took great pride in. Her love of family, gardening, traveling, and genealogy brought so much joy to her heart. In her last days, when asked what is the best advice that she would give to her family, she said “Be kind. That’s it. Just be kind.”
The family requests, in lieu of flowers, that donations be made to the Newport News-Warwick Chapter/NSDAR. These donations will go to the Sarah Lou Whitehead fund, to be used for the Good Citizens Award presented each year to outstanding Newport News high school seniors. Donations may be sent to 100 South Maple Rd, Yorktown, VA 23693. Donations may also be made to the Hospice House of Williamsburg, 4445 Powhatan Parkway, Williamsburg, Va 23188 or online at williamsburghospice.org.
A funeral service will be held on Friday, December 19, at noon at Peninsula Funeral Home with burial to follow at Peninsula Memorial Park. Family and friends are invited to the home of Doug and Leah Shearin for a Celebration of Life luncheon immediately following the internment.
9 Comments
Rest in peace dear Miriam.you are missed by all who knew you.& sincere condolences to the family.
We loved your Mom so much ❤️. She and Mr. Williams was ALWAYS kind and good to me. My heart breaks for your family. I will miss her
Leah I am so sorry. Sending my thoughts and prayers to you and your family
Now is not the time but my maiden name was Barrett
Love you
One of fondest memories of Mrs Williams was a trip to Va beach. Maybe up to 35 yrs ago. She was doing hand stand on ocean floor just as the first wave broke at the beach. This is how she lived her life to the full extent. A lasting memory and message to everyone.
Miriam was a sweet neighbor and friend. I enjoyed our conversations over the years. I am so happy that she is now reunited with Leo, the love of her life. Sending prayers to her entire, beautiful family.
I met Miriam via Leo who attended William & Mary when my brother Harry was there. Miriam was always true to her advice. She was always so kind. Whether at Mr Williams Hilton Cleaners or DAR business at my Trophy World business in Hilton or social settings, whereever, she was always kind and friendly, RIP Miriam………Bobby Hilling….always trying to be kind…
Leah I’m so sorry. Your mom was such a sweet lady. We had so many wonderful conversations and lots of laughs. She meant a lot to me. Sending thoughts and prayers.
Miriam was my neighbor for almost 50 years but I never saw her when she did not have her hair combed, her makeup on looking like she was going somewhere. She was a warm, wonderful, loving person and just like family. We enjoyed our chats and hugs. I MISS HER.
Ms Miriam was always such a sweet lady when she came in to see me. She will be missed dearly. Our thoughts and condolences go out to her family and friends. from her Allstate Family