Jean Williams, 81

Jean Williams passed away at the age of 81. She lived a full and vibrant life until a series of sudden health issues in her final year.

Jean managed to successfully and simultaneously juggle pursuing an education and career while raising two boys.

Jean earned her bachelor’s degree from Tennessee Tech, master’s degree from George Peabody College of Vanderbilt University, and completed additional graduate study at George Peabody College and MTSU. Jean worked at Motlow College from 1980 until her retirement. She started as a librarian (often with her older son as an unpaid “assistant” behind the circulation desk), and served as library director, associate dean, and personnel director. After joining Motlow’s faculty in 1992 Jean taught students for many years as an associate professor of psychology and sociology.

Jean believed that international and multicultural literacy are just as important as teaching the three r’s. She served as coordinator of Motlow’s International Education Program, leading students in the school’s Study Abroad Program on trips to France. Between guiding students abroad and her own treks, Jean traveled throughout Europe and the United States as well as China. She sailed the Caribbean and South America in a private sailboat while tutoring the ship’s first mate, her younger son.

Jean Williams was dedicated to helping victims of domestic abuse and helped run a women’s shelter for many years while still working at Motlow full-time.

Though her earthly journey has sadly concluded she is survived by her sons Travis Scott Eller of Seattle, Washington and his wife Jenny and Spence Gordon of Oakland, California and his wife Amber, as well as two grandsons Johnathon Eller and George Eller, her sister Marian Templeton Gooch, and numerous nieces and nephews. Jean was predeceased by her parents Conrad Lee Templeton and Sylvia Louise Hudson and four brothers: Clifford, Willard, Tommy, and Johnny.

The family welcomes visitors between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m., Friday Aug. 7, 2026, at High Funeral Home in McMinnville.

A memorial service will be held at the Church of Christ at Jericho in Quebeck, Tennessee at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, August 8, 2026.

Online condolences may be left at www.highfuneralhome.com.

High Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.