Vigen Memorial Home obituary - Jeannette S. Williamson, 90, formerly of Keokuk

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Accompanied by music and with family at her side, Jeanette Smith Williamson, 90, formerly of Keokuk, IA, died peacefully Monday, January 4, 2021 in Omaha, NE.
The youngest of four children, Jeanette was born March 22, 1930 in Hillsboro, OH to the late William Albert “Bert” and Doris Barrett Smith. She was preceded in death by her husband, the late Dr. Billy James Williamson; brother, Ralph “Pat” Smith; sister Beverly Smith Fenner; and survived by sister Aileen Smith Githens.
Her legacy includes five children: identical twin sons S. Brandt (Beth) Williamson of Des Moines; J. Brian (Jenal) Williamson of Mason, OH; three daughters: Jamey (Mark) Phillips of Springboro, OH; Jana (Mike) Helmuth of Seattle; Jewel (Rick) Schieuer of Omaha; eleven grandchildren and five great grandchildren.
Jeanette graduated Valedictorian of Marshall High School with the Class of 1948. She earned a B.S. Education degree at Wilmington College in 1952.
She taught one year in Belfast, OH before marrying her childhood sweetheart on September 21, 1952 at Marshall Methodist Church. Their first home was in Chicago while Billy completed his studies at Northwestern Medical School.
They settled in Keokuk in 1957 where Jeanette managed Billy’s private family medical practice and raised their family.
She was an active and dedicated member of United Presbyterian Church of Keokuk, serving as elder and clerk of session and shared her talents through worship and music.
Her volunteer service was welcomed throughout the community, including the boards for Keokuk Area Hospital, Keokuk Home Health Care, and the YMCA.
Her interests and activities included golf, bridge club, PEO, Keokuk Amateur Radio Club, Mother’s Study Club, Keokuk HS Band Boosters, travelling, gardening, and sewing.
She was a naturally gifted musician, performing regularly at churches and local venues with her family and various groups, including McNamara’s Band.
After a lifetime of putting others before herself, she is best remembered by all for her sweet smile. We were blessed to have her in our lives.
Visitation was held at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk on Friday, Jan 8. A graveside service was held Friday at the Keokuk National Cemetery. Social distancing measures will be in effect and masks are required at both the visitation and graveside.
For her detailed life story and online condolences visit www.vigenmemorialhome.com.

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