Ethel Renee Colledge Williams, our beloved mother and cherished friend, was born on May 28, 1946, in the serene town of Tooele, Utah. She was the daughter of Clyde and Josephine Bollschweiler Colledge, who instilled in her the values of kindness and warmth that she carried throughout her life. Renee married Leo Kent Williams on April 28, 1966.
Renee’s life was enriched by a large and loving family. She was predeceased by her devoted husband, Leo Kent Williams, and her beloved daughter, Tamra Lynn Smith. She was also preceded in death by her parents, her siblings Raymond and Margene Colledge, Ronnie Colledge, Jay Colledge, and Joan and Bill Gordon, as well as her revered in-laws, Hans and Leota Williams, and brother-in-law, Kirk Williams.
Renee is survived by her children, Craig (Cindy) Williams and Dean (Misti) Williams; son-in-law, Douglas Smith, who reflect the values and strength she embodied. Her legacy continues through her adored grandchildren—Tyler, Chance, and Jacob Williams—and her great-grandchildren, Stetson, Colbie Jean, Braxton, and Cash, who were the lights of her life. She is also lovingly remembered by her sisters-in-law, Pat Colledge and Betty Colledge.
Renee was a proud graduate of Tooele High School and furthered her education at cosmetology school. Her dedication and strong work ethic were evident through her long and distinguished career at the Tooele Army Depot and South Area, where she worked for over 30 years. Even after retirement, her zeal for life led her to return as a dignitary personnel escort at Deseret Chemical Depot, contributing her talents and skills.
Her life was a tapestry of vibrant interests and hobbies. Renee had a passion for crocheting and scrapbooking, preserving memories with her unique touch. She was an avid concert-goer and found joy in camping and following her grandchildren’s various sporting events. Known for her culinary talents, Renee’s rolls, stuffing, and pumpkin chocolate chip cookies were legendary among family and friends. Renee spent many years as the secretary for the Grantsville High School Rodeo Club and as a timer at the Utah High School Rodeo State Finals. She proudly volunteered at the 2002 Olympics and loved every minute of it. She found joy in playing pinochle at the Grantsville Senior Center with her beloved friends.
Renee’s spirit was characterized by her welcoming nature and infectious laughter. She had an unwavering love for her family, always prioritizing time with her children and grandchildren. Her home was filled with warmth and the aroma of her cooking, making her the heart of every family gathering.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Our House Assisted Living for their compassionate care over the past two years. A special thank you goes to Jordan Rydalch and Lindsay Brewer for their loving care and kindness to Renee.
Services to honor Renee’s life will be held at Didericksen Memorial Funeral Services, located at 87 West Main St., Grantsville, UT 84029. We will have a viewing on Monday, September 21, from 6–8 p.m., and Tuesday, September 22, there will be a viewing at 10 a.m., with services beginning at 11 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in Ethel’s name to a charity of your choice.
Ethel Renee Colledge Williams will forever be remembered for her boundless love, her commitment to family, and her joyous spirit that touched the lives of all who knew her.