The Rev. Beth N. Williams

The Rev. Beth N. Williams died on August 1, 2024, at the age of 72 (1952-2024).

Beth was born on March 25, 1952, in Perth-Amboy NJ. She received her Bachelor of Arts from Rutgers University NJ in 1974 before embarking on a successful career as a systems analyst, software developer, and project manager. She specialized in financial accounting mainframe computer systems and worked for a custodial bank in Boston and a consulting firm with offices in Boston, Chicago, and New York. 

During her time in Chicago (1979–1983), she was introduced to the UU faith and social action. Beth became involved with the 2nd Unitarian Church of Chicago volunteering in Religious Education. This sparked her passion for faith and community service and planted the seed of her calling to the UU ministry. Over ten years, her calling grew stronger and deeper. In 1993, Beth returned to Chicago to attend Meadville Lombard Theological School. In 1997, she graduated with her Master of Divinity.

Following graduation, the Rev. Williams served the First Unitarian Society of Chicago IL (1998–2000) and the UU Church of Greater Lynn, Swampscott MA (2000–2002) as a Minister of Religious Education. From 2002–2010, she was the UUA’s Religious Education and Music Leadership Credentialing Director. In this role, she counseled candidates of the Religious Education and Music Leadership Credentialing program relating to progressing through the program.

The Rev. Williams provided her services to the First Parish Church in Beverly MA (2006–2008) as a worship committee chair, as a member of the Flower Committee and Parish Council, occasionally taught church school, and sang in the choir. She then served as a Director of Religious Education at the Unitarian Church of Baton Rouge LA for six years (2012–2018). She retired from professional ministry in 2017. After retirement, she moved from Baton Rouge to Tucson AZ, and became active with the Mountain Vista UU Congregation AZ. She was involved with the Care Group there.

The Rev. Williams was active in the denomination serving on the board of the LREDA, on the Executive Committee of the Mass Bay District RE Team, and as a co-director of RE Week at Ferry Beach.

Beth extended warmth and care to everyone she encountered and valued fairness, inclusion, and compassion. She cared deeply about children and youth, including those who were on the margins or often left out.

Beth was an occasional knitter and a Red Sox fan. She enjoyed traveling to Latin America and teaching ESL. She had an interest in Spanish language and culture and volunteered with refugee families who transitioned through Tucson. She spent her last year at Brookdale Oro Valley (assisted living facility) where she made friends with the staff and residents.

Beth is survived by her brother, Doug Nuber, as well as several cousins. A celebration of life service was held at the Mountain Vista Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 3235 W Orange Grove Rd, Tucson AZ 85741.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the following:

UURMaPA contributed to the UUMA Endowment Fund in honor of our colleague’s ministry. Notes of condolences may be sent to Kristi Lewis, 14090 N. Lobelia Way, Oro Valley AZ 85755.

View all obituaries