Elaine L. Williams
Elaine L. Williams, 96, died Thursday, December 7, 2023, at Mount Nittany Medical Center, State College.
Elaine was born on July 31, 1927, in Chester Hill, a daughter of the late James Robert and Gladys Elizabeth (Sweitzer) Simmons.
Early in her life, she went to live with an aunt and uncle, Larry and Erma Steele, in Cincinnati, Ohio. Following her graduation from high school, she was employed as a manager for a White Castle in Cincinnati for about four years.
Elaine wanted to serve her country and be a part of the war effort; so, she enlisted in the Army Air Force in October 1944. She served with the Sq. B 146th. AAF Base Unit during her first enlistment. Then in August 1946, she reenlisted with the army and served with the Co. B 8225 WAC Battalion. During this second enlistment, she would serve for a brief period with the Army of Occupation in Japan. Elaine thoroughly enjoyed her assignment to Japan; and often spoke of her time there and getting to experience a bit of the Japanese culture. She was honorably discharged in June 1947 and was proud to have served with the “WACs.”
Following her WWII service, Elaine accepted a position with the US Postal Service and spent her entire working career with the USPS in the Cincinnati, Ohio area. She retired after over 30 years of service.
She relocated back to Philipsburg several years ago to live with her niece and caretaker, Diana Rice.
Among her favorite pastimes, she loved to read books.
She is also survived by a sister, Charlotte Kephart, of Chester Hill; and numerous other extended family members.
She was preceded in death by four sisters: Dorothy B. Gonzales, Gladys “Pooch” Rice, Joanne Pinto and Nancy L. Huggins; and five brothers: Code, Richard, Harry, Bill and Robert Simmons.
Elaine was a member of the Philipsburg American Legion, Post #437.
A graveside service with military honors will be accorded by the Philipsburg American Legion Honor Guard on Saturday, December 16, 2023, at 1:15 pm, at the Philipsburg Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made in Elaine’s memory to the American Legion, Post #437, 315 E. Presqueisle St., P.O. Box 682, Philipsburg, Pa 16866.
Family and friends may sign the online guestbook and share memories at www.beezerheathfh.com.
