SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 313 Offered January 10, 2007 Prefiled November 6, 2006 Celebrating the life of Janett Flood Williams. ---------- Patron-- Miller ----------

WHEREAS, Janett Flood Williams of Norfolk, a beloved citizen who was dedicated to the well being and ministry of children, died on May 14, 2006; and

WHEREAS, Janett "Janie" Flood was born to Rosa and Godwin Flood on July 21, 1911, in Bertie County, North Carolina, and was the sibling of nine brothers and a sister; and

WHEREAS, after graduating from Elizabeth City State University, Janett Flood moved to Norfolk where she worked at the Naval Supply Center; and

WHEREAS, in 1951, Janett Flood met and fell in love with Pastor D. Lawrence Williams and the couple had 14 wonderful children; and

WHEREAS, Janett Williams, called "Mother Dear" by everyone who loved and admired her, was an amazing mother and a strong and compassionate woman who always looked after the needs of not only her own children, but the needs of other family members and friends; and

WHEREAS, as the spiritual partner of Bishop Williams and the first lady of Mason Memorial Church of God in Christ, Janett Williams was also a dedicated and inspirational advocate for children in the church, as well as in the community; and

WHEREAS, as a devoted pastor's wife, Janett Williams lived a life of service to others and was actively involved in countless church ministries and activities; and

WHEREAS, Janett Williams will be fondly remembered for her kind and generous nature and greatly missed by her adoring children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and other family members, as well as her numerous friends and admirers in the church and in the Norfolk community; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the Senate, the House of Delegates concurring, That the General Assembly mourn the passing of a fine Virginian, Janett Flood Williams; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the Senate prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the family of Janett Flood Williams as an expression of the General Assembly’s respect for her memory.