Miriam Gilbart Williams

WILLIAMS, Miriam Gilbart 88, of St. Petersburg, departed her earthly life to join the Lord on December 17, 2014. Survivors include her husband of 65 years, Eugene "Gene" L. Williams, Jr. and their children: Finnette Fabrick, of Gainesville; Martha Williams Thurman (Ed), Michael E. Williams and David G. Williams (Lesli), of St. Petersburg; and seven grandchildren: Elena Fabrick and Nathan Fabrick (Holly); Lt. Colonel Jeremy Gilkes (Virginia) and Jessica Stofan (Kevin); Dr. Cameron Williams Swanick (Patrick), Kendall Williams and Carson Williams; and 10 great grandchildren; several cousins, nephews and nieces. Miriam's ancestors helped settle St. Petersburg more than a century ago, making the Gilbart family early pioneers of the city. Her grandfather, Harold W. Gilbart, arrived from London to St. Petersburg in 1884. Miriam was born on December 15, 1926 to Oscar and Finnette Gilbart at Faith Hospital (later renamed St. Anthony's Hospital) in St. Petersburg. She is predeceased by her two sisters, Finnette Gilbart deLormier and Joanne Gilbart Summer. Miriam was a 1944 graduate of St. Petersburg High School where she was a member of the National Honor Society, Senior Class Vice President and head cheerleader. Later that year, she was named Miss St. Petersburg. In 1948, she received her bachelor's degree in education from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, where she was a cheerleader and president of her Chi Omega sorority. After graduation, Miriam moved back to St. Petersburg and married Gene Williams on July 9, 1949. Prior to her marriage, she taught home economics at Clearwater High School. In the early years of their marriage, they moved several times within Florida, keeping up with Gene's business career. In 1957, Gene and Miriam became members of St. Thomas' Episcopal Church in St. Petersburg. Miriam was an active member and in 1979 she served as the church's first female Senior Warden. She also served for many years as a Group Discussion Leader with Bible Study Fellowship. She was a member of the St. Pete Yacht Club and also enjoyed tennis, bridge, cooking and was an avid sports fan, especially for the Florida Gators. Miriam was a great wife, mother, grandmother (Mimi), great grandmother and friend. Her bright smile and giving spirit will continue to shine through all who knew her. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made in her memory to St. Thomas Episcopal Church. Online donations may be made at www.memorial-donations.org.