Carmen Joanne Williams

Carmen Joanne Williams
March 26,1936-January 25,2020
 
It is with deep sorrow that the family of Carmen Williams announces her passing on January 25, 2020. Carmen was a cherished wife and mother, and was an admired member in the community of Clayton.  Born in Marin County to Martha and Louis LaRossa, she was raised in the grocery store business at her father’s store, LaRossa’a Market, in Walnut Creek. Carmen attended Holy Names University in Oakland and graduated in 1959, the same year she married her high school sweetheart Donald Williams. Carmen went on to teach grade school At Indian Valley Elementary School in Walnut Creek for several years.  They resided together in Walnut Creek until moving to rural Clayton in 1972. Carmen and Don opened their grocery store, Don’s Market, in Concord and operated it from 1961 until 1994. After moving to Clayton they opened their second store, Village Market, in downtown Clayton in 1972 and operated it until 1992. The Village Market was and still is a pillar of the Clayton neighborhood. Many members of the community have fond memories of Carmen and Don working together in the “little blue store”.  Carmen was a dedicated parishioner of Saint Bonaventure Church in Concord, most parishioners would recognize Carmen from anywhere in the church by her brilliant red hair. She was a member of the Clayton Historical Society, as well as the Clayton Women’s Club. Carmen enjoyed all things glitter, sewing, painting, ceramic work, doll making, gardening, home décor, and volunteering through her social clubs. Carmen is survived by her husband, Donald Williams; brother, Tony LaRossa; and four children: Mike Williams, Maria Forester, Deanna Williams, and Donna Teixeira. She also left a legacy of nine grandchildren: Jessica Krasner, Jenna Williams, Julia Williams, Carly Sullivan, Josie Sullivan, Ava Williams, Christopher Sullivan, Casey Forester, and Mia Forester. Carmen was delighted to welcome to the family her first great grandson: Jaxson Bizicki. Carmen was a beautiful woman inside and out. She was kind-hearted with a sparkling smile, loved to laugh and deeply enjoyed spending time with her family.  A beloved mother and wife, her family will forever hold her in their hearts. A rosary vigil will be held February 6, from 6pm to 8pm at Ouimet Brothers in Concord, followed by a memorial service on February 7, at 10:30am located at Saint Bonaventure church in Concord. 

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