North Hornell, NY

Christine “Chris” Williams – 67 – of Cleveland Ave., North Hornell, died early Wednesday morning (July 2, 2025) at Elderwood at Hornell Nursing Facility following a long illness.

Born in New Albany, MS on July 29, 1957, she was the daughter of Elmer & Amanda (Boles) Folsom.

Chris resided in Mississippi until she was about 10 years old when her family moved north to the South Fallsburg, NY area.  She was a graduate of Monticello Central High School (class of 1975) and later attended cosmetology school in Middletown, NY.

A talented photographer, Chris was employed for several years at the Concord Hotel in the Catskill Mountains photographing weddings, fashion shows and other events.  She also became friends with Muhammad Ali and served as his personal photographer as he did much of his training for up-coming fights at the Concord Hotel.

For several years, Chris lived in Miami, FL where she served as a photographer and also worked at a high fashion store.  She has resided in the Hornell area since 1993.

Chris was a “self-proclaimed homebody” who loved every kind of music, including R&B, Hip-Hop, Soul Music and the Blues.   In her younger years she loved dancing — especially during the Disco Years and doing the “Hustle.”

A strong, out-spoken, free spirited woman, Chris liked to read fashion magazines and the Bible.  She also enjoyed shooting pool, playing cards and dining on soul food along with “down-south cuisine” from Mississippi.  Chris was a true “Survivor” who lived 25 years with just one lung.  Doctors called her a “Miracle.”

She was preceded in death by 2 brothers, Dwight Folsom and Samuel Folsom; 2 sisters, Della Mae Folsom-Sheppard and Louise Fingers.

On April 20, 1985, Chris married Samuel “Sam” Williams who survives.  Also surviving are her daughter, Ashley Williams of Canandaigua, NY; her step-son, Kory Williams of Atlanta, GA; 2 brothers, Willie Folsom of Holly Springs, MS and John Folsom of Ithaca, NY; 4 sisters, Lucille Herbent of Liberty, NY, Edith Sheppard of Pembroke Pines, FL, Claudette Folsom of Monticello, NY and Brenda Folsom of Chicago, IL; 2 grandchildren, December Williams and Jordan Williams; many nieces & nephews.

At Christine’s request there will be no calling hours.  Private services will be held at the convenience of the family.

Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.

Chris’ family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.