Pastor Diana Williams-Connors

Diana Ora Connors was born to Bishop Henry Sylvester Connors and Lizzie Ann (Jones) Connors on January 18, 1948. She accepted Christ early in life. At the tender age of nine, Diana traveled with her father gracing congregations with her beautiful voice and became known as Bishop Connors' little songstress. Diana was educated in the Alton Public School System graduating from Bennett High School, Buffalo, New York. In 1965 she married Saint Samuel (Chuck) Williams and moved to Buffalo, New York. Chuck and Diana were blessed with a beautiful daughter, Aleta Rochelle Williams. Diana was a boisterous woman of God who used her gifts and talents to share God's word with everyone she encountered. While living in Buffalo, New York, she was an active member at Holy Presence COGIC serving under the leadership of Willie Woods. Diana lived her life as a dedicated leader for Christ. In 1990 she became the Pastor of Alton Community Church of God, the first lady to be recognized and ordained in the Alton Community. She pastored Alton Community Church of God for over 32 years receiving many accolades within the Alton community for her ministry and service. Diana served on appointments as general secretary and ambassador for women's leadership to the 19th International United Fellowship International Ministry. In addition to serving in ministry, Diana was a servant leader in the community. Her community service extended to her serving on the board of the Alton Housing Authority. Diana began her professional career in Buffalo with Blue Cross Blue Shield later transferring to the St. Louis Office where she retired after 35 years of exemplary performance and dedicated service. During her 35-year career with Blue Cross Blue Shield she developed relationships that blessed her with some of her closest friends. Diana was first and foremost a servant for Christ, but she was also a kind, gentle, resilient strength. These characteristics were consistent and were demonstrated true to her character, in commendable fashion up until her last moments. She took her last earthly breath at 3:58 AM on Monday, February 12th, 2024. Diana loved and cherished her long list of beloved family and friends. Until we meet again, she is survived by her daughter, Aleta Rochelle Johnson (Lenier) and granddaughter, Alexandria Elise Johnson, her beloved brothers Henry Connors and Tyrone Connors, nephews Ethan and Jayden Williams also known as the other grandchildren and Shawn Connors, her beautiful nieces Carmen Childs (Eric), Latoya Gomer, Melissa Pitts (Kenny), Jamesia Harris, Ashley Connors and a host of cousins, great nieces, great nephews and loving friends. She was preceded in death by her parents Bishop Henry Sylvester Connors, Lizzie Ann (Jones) Connors, brothers, James Connors, Delbert Connors, and Randale “Randy” Connors.

Pastor Diana Williams-Connors

January 18, 1948 - February 12, 2024