Patsy Williams

Mrs. Patsy Chandler Williams, 81, passed away peacefully on Nov 6th at St. Thomas Hospital in Nashville after suffering a fall earlier in the week. Patsy Williams was born in Atlanta, Georgia on August 31, 1939 and spent her childhood living in Birmingham, Alabama. Her summers were spent at Camp Monterey in Monterey, TN both as a camper and later as a member of their staff. She attended The University of Alabama receiving a degree in early childhood education. Upon graduation, she moved to New Orleans, Louisiana, to teach kindergarten at the Isidore Newman School. In 1964, she married Malcolm R. Williams, Jr. and together they dedicated their lives to running Camp Country Lad for boys in Monterey, TN, founded in 1962 by Mr. Williams. For over 50 years, she selflessly worked alongside “Mr. Malcolm” running a camp where boys would learn to live simply in the out-of-doors, make friends and grow in character. His dream became her dream as she became mother for the summer to thousands of boys, loving each one as if they were her own. Camp Country Lad continues to operate to this day where their legacy will continue to have a positive impact on the lives of young men from all over the country. Mrs. Williams attended First Presbyterian Church in Cookeville where she served as Sunday school superintendent and Sunday school teacher. Mrs. Williams is the daughter of the late Robert Carswell Chandler and Mildred Mahone Chandler. Mrs. Williams was preceded in death by her husband Malcolm R. Williams, Jr. and her brother Robert Chandler. She is survived by daughter Marion Elizabeth Williams and her husband Matthew Arbour, son Malcolm McGregor Williams, grandchildren Andrew Louis Arbour and Margaret Graeme Arbour. The family will hold a small graveside service later this week and a celebration of her life will take place at a later date at Camp Country Lad when it is safe for large groups to gather. Hooper Huddleston & Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111. Share memories and condolences at www.hhhfunerals.com.