Vicki Lynn Williams

In Loving Memory of Vicki Harrison Williams

October 24, 1968 - June 29, 2026

Vicki Lynn Williams passed away leaving behind a legacy of compassion, creativity, and unwavering devotion to animals, family, and friends. Her kindness, generous spirit, and determination touched countless lives and will be remembered for years to come.
Born on October 24, 1968, Vicki was the cherished daughter of the late Joseph Edward Harrison and Linda Harrison, who preceded her in death. She shared a loving marriage with her devoted husband, Marvin Williams, whose steadfast love and companionship were a constant source of strength and happiness throughout their years together.

For nearly a decade, Vicki proudly served as the Director of the Monroe County Animal Shelter, where she became a passionate advocate for abandoned, neglected, and homeless animals. Through her leadership, dedication, and tireless efforts, she helped countless animals find loving homes while educating the community about responsible pet ownership and animal welfare. Her compassion changed lives-both human and animal-and left a lasting mark on Monroe County.

Outside of her professional life, Vicki was widely respected in the dog community for her dedication to the Azawakh, a rare sighthound breed originating in West Africa. She devoted years to promoting, preserving, and educating others about the breed and was among those whose efforts helped pave the way for the Azawakh to achieve full recognition by the American Kennel Club. Following that milestone, Vicki proudly represented the breed at the prestigious Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, a moment that reflected years of passion, perseverance, and commitment to preserving one of the world's most unique dog breeds. Her beloved Azawakh, Obi, and her faithful Chihuahua, Bink, were treasured companions and constant reminders of the joy she found in animals.

Vicki possessed a remarkable creative spirit. Whether sewing beautiful garments, decorating elaborate cakes, capturing unforgettable moments through photography, or mastering countless other artistic pursuits, she approached every project with extraordinary talent, patience, and attention to detail. She had a gift for creating beauty and making others feel special through the things she made.

More than any accomplishment, Vicki will be remembered for the love she gave so freely. She was fiercely loyal to her family and friends, generous with her time, and never hesitated to stand up for those who could not speak for themselves. Her strength, humor, determination, and compassionate heart inspired everyone fortunate enough to know her.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Marvin Williams; her sisters, Donna Akard and husband Mike Akard, Noma Gunn and husband Thomas Gunn, Trudy Davis and husband Chris Davis, Sandra Smith and husband Lionell Smith Jr., and Melinda Colvin; her brothers, Joseph Edward Harrison, Jr. and wife Rhonda Harrison, and Wade Harrison and companion Arlene Johnson, niece (like a daughter) Taylor Harrison; along with many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, lifelong friends, and fellow dog enthusiasts whose lives she enriched.

Although Vicki's time with us was far too short, the legacy she leaves behind will continue through every animal she saved, every family she touched, every creative work she shared, and every person inspired by her compassion. She lived a life of purpose, generosity, and love-a life that will never be forgotten.
In accordance with Vicki's wishes, there will be no public services. A celebration of life will be planned in the fall. Those wishing to honor her memory are invited to donate in her name to a private animal rescue organization or to PPAWS of Greenback, Tennessee.

"The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated." - Mahatma Gandhi

"Poke it with a stick!" - Vicki Williams

You are invited to share a personal memory of Vicki or your condolences with her family at her online memorial located at www.companionfunerals.com. Companion Funeral Home of Cleveland and the Cody family are honored to assist the family with these arrangements.