By: Bernice Sykes | April 17, 2024
Marks, Mississippi – A heritage celebration, reflecting 61 years of services and the contributions of the Les’ Grandes Soeurs (LES) Social Club is being held at Trinity United Methodist church, as the social club celebrates its 60th year Founder’s Day, Saturday, April 27, 2024, 2:30 pm, at Trinity United Methodist Church.
In keeping with their 2024 theme, “Celebrating the Rich Traditions of Our Founders While Transforming Our Future Through God for Service and Sisterhood,” Dr. Mary Williams is the founder’s day speaker.
Dr. Williams is a distinguished healthcare professional, renowned for her expertise as a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and her visionary role as the Founder and Owner of the Urgent & Primary Care Clinic of Clarksdale, which stands as a pioneering healthcare institution in Coahoma County. Throughout her remarkable career, Dr. Williams has consistently fostered robust collaborative partnerships within the healthcare industry while tirelessly advocating for the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
A native of Quitman County, Dr. Williams embarked on her educational journey by earning her Associate Degree in Nursing from Northwest Community College. She continued to expand her knowledge and qualifications by obtaining a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing from Delta State University, followed by a Master of Science Degree in Nursing from Mississippi University for Women. Driven by her commitment to excellence, she further solidified her credentials by achieving a Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree from the prestigious University of Tennessee Health Science Center.
Dr. Williams has not only excelled academically but has also made significant contributions to the field of healthcare. She held ownership and operated Clarksdale’s first locally owned hospice agency from 2001 to 2007, leaving an indelible mark on the community’s healthcare landscape. She maintains active licenses to practice as a Nurse Practitioner in both Mississippi and Tennessee. Additionally, she is a distinguished member of esteemed professional organizations, including the Mississippi Nurses Association, American Nurses Association, American Association for Nurse Practitioner, and the National Kidney Foundation.
Her outstanding achievements have earned her recognition as one of the Top 50 Leading Businesswomen in the State of Mississippi. Dr. Williams has been the recipient of numerous accolades in the healthcare sector, a testament to her unwavering dedication to her profession. She attributes her success to her unwavering faith.
Dr. Williams lives by the inspirational motto, “Write your Story,” demonstrating her belief in the power of individuals to shape their destinies through hard work, perseverance, and a strong sense of purpose. Her life’s work continues to inspire and positively impact the healthcare community and the lives of countless individuals.
While paying tribute to the original founders and all who worked with them, LES will recognize community builders Velma Benson and their sister, Mildred Lee for their outstanding work and many contributions in the Quitman County community and for having supported the organization. Additionally, LES will honor Tea Keeler, one of its own sisters, for becoming the first African American elected Circuit Court Clerk.
The Les’ Grandes Soeurs Social Club was organized in 1963 under the leadership of Mary A. Towner, its founder. It is the oldest people of color women’s social club in the Mississippi Delta.
For the past 61 years, Les Grandes Soeurs has devoted themselves to serving the community of Quitman County. They played a critical role in pushing for scholarships for young people and civic progress in Quitman County. These ladies invite the public to come out and celebrate with them as they observe 61 years of services LES will reflect on their accomplishments and celebrate their legacy. In their dedication to serving the public, they are unyielding and steadfast.
Photo 1: Velma Benson Photo 2: Mildred Lee Photo 3: Tea Keeler
Dr. Mary A. Williams
