Nora Josephine Williams, 89, of Springfield, MO passed away peacefully on Friday, October 19, 2018 at Mercy Hospital surrounded by her family. She was born on Thursday, April 25, 1929 in Niangua, MO to Edith Vance and George W. Essary.

Nora married Lawrence Forrest in 1948 and to this union five children were born. In 1968 she began her career as a nurse caregiver, working for more than 40 years in local Springfield hospitals. In 1971 Nora married Alvin Williams, they enjoyed 37 years together until his passing in 2008. When she wasn't caring for her many patients, Nora was busy being a mother and exploring Gods beautiful creations. Nora loved the outdoors and spent most of her time in nature. She loved camping, hunting, fishing and most of all having grandchildren to teach and share her words of wisdom. Nora had a love for life and truly cared for everyone who entered her life, always keeping the door open for those in need. She whole heartedly cherished her family, friends and her savior Jesus Christ. Nora was an active member of Homeland Baptist Church in Springfield, were she served for many years as a teacher and assisted in many other church functions.

She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, one daughter Barbara Forrest (Price), one son William "Bill" Forrest, two son-in-laws Charlie Williams and Jerry Long, one grandson Jody Kinkade, two great-granddaughter Samantha Robertson and baby girl Price, one brother Jim Essary and three sisters Becky Essary, Caroline Elizabeth Essary and Mary Letterman (Essary).

Nora is survived by her three children Bonnie Kinkade (husband Donnie) of Marshfield, MO, Brenda Williams of Springfield, MO and Beth Long (significant other Glen), one brother John Essary (wife Janice) of Olive, MO, four sisters Anna Dyal of Springfield, MO, Clara Adams of Willard, MO, Laura Calvard of Marshfield, MO and Myrtel Terry of Niangua, MO, 14 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews, friends and family. A visitation will be held from 5-7pm on Tuesday, October 23, 2018 at the Klingner-Cope Family Funeral Home at White Chapel, 5234 W. State Hwy EE., Springfield, MO 65802, with funeral services to follow at 10am on Wednesday, October 24, 2018. Burial will take place at the Good Springs cemetery. Online condolences can be made at www.klingnerfuneralhome.com