Myrtle Mae Jones Williams was born in Kansas to Hettie Pillow Jones. While officially recorded as the daughter of John S. Jones, it was suspected that her natural father was a German-born man named Sterling. She spent her early years in Great Bend, Kansas, where she was childhood friends with Maudelle Bousfield, who later became a prominent educator, mathematician & International president of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated.

Her academic journey led her to Howard University, where she graduated in 1907. During her time at Howard, Myrtle was actively involved in campus life. She was the roommate of Ethel Hedgemon Lyle, and witnessed the beginning stages of the planning of the sorority. Williams participated in many extracurricular activities. She was a dedicated member of Howard’s Alpha Phi Literary Society, known for its intellectual discussions and oratory competitions, and was also involved in the Young People's Society of Christian Endeavor (YPSCE), a religious and service organization.

Career and Family Life

After graduation, Myrtle began her teaching career at the Joseph K. Brick Industrial School, a well-regarded institution that provided education and vocational training to African American students in the early 20th century. By 1916, she was teaching in Muscogee, Oklahoma, continuing her commitment to education and community upliftment.

During her time at Howard, she met and later married Robert Williams Sr., a prominent Black dentist who practiced in Oklahoma. In 1912, she became a mother, giving birth to Robert Williams Jr. She later had two more sons, M. Ronald Williams and Donald Williams, though Donald tragically died in infancy. Her son M. Ronald Williams followed in his father’s footsteps and became a dentist, continuing the family’s legacy in the field of healthcare.

In 1919, her husband moved the family to California, where he continued his dental practice and established himself as a respected professional in the Black community. Myrtle’s transition to California marked a new chapter in her life, where she expanded her civic and social involvement.

Civic Engagement and Alpha Kappa Alpha

Beyond her contributions to education, Myrtle was deeply involved in civic and social justice efforts. She served as the president of the Friends of Justice, an organization advocating for fairness in the legal system. In this role, she publicly recognized Judges in California for their fair rulings by presenting them with Bibles.

Myrtle’s dedication to sisterhood and service continued into her later years. She continued service with the  California graduate chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., in the 1930’s,  solidifying her lifelong commitment to education, leadership, and community service.

Family Legacy and Historical Connections

Myrtle’s family history is notable—her mother, Hettie Pillow Jones, received back pay from the U.S. government in 1867 as the heir of Samuel Pillow, indicating a significant legal claim that underscored her family's historical legacy.

Myrtle Williams passed away in 1957, in California. Her life was one of dedication to education, justice, and community activism. Through her work as a teacher, her leadership in civic organizations, and her contributions to Alpha Kappa Alpha, she left a lasting impact on those she served.