Elaine Rae Williams passed away October 23, 2022, at her home in Lafayette at age 82. Elaine was born April 29th, 1940, in Des Moines, Iowa, to Robert and JeVerna Heggen (Michelson) and is preceded in death by her parents, brother Darrol Heggen, and loving husband, Jim Williams. As a child, Elaine was an athlete, participating in synchronized swimming, track, softball and table tennis. She was the head cheerleader at East High School in Des Moines, marrying her high school sweetheart in 1960. The couple enjoyed 60 years together, successfully raised three children, and took great joy in helping raise grandson Jameson. Elaine trained at Iowa Lutheran School of Nursing and spent her career as an Obstetric nurse in Des Moines, IA; Evanston, IL and in Boulder. Nursing was a career she loved but eventually left in order to care for her children and support Jim in his educational and career pursuits. Her family is eternally grateful for the wise guidance and support she provided. Elaine's talents and interests were far ranging. She will be remembered as smart and intellectually curious - delving into accounting, computer science, history, religion, and spirituality, gardening, and various artistic pursuits such as quilting. Elaine remained a sports fan throughout her life. Her favorite activity over the last few years was watching Jameson pitch for his competitive baseball teams. Elaine is survived by son Brett Williams (Chie Hishigata); daughter Michele (Tim) DeBerry; daughter Jill Williams; and grandson Jameson Williams. She is also survived by childhood friend and sister-in-law Penny Heggen and her large extended family. Elaine was lovingly cared for in later life by Jim, her children, Peach Remedy, and Tru Community Hospice. She has been laid to rest at Coal Creek Cemetery and is greatly missed by those that knew and loved her.

Published by The Daily Camera on Nov. 27, 2022.