India Chanel Williams was born on Saturday, December 16, 1972 to Charles Bennett and Paula Scott in St. Augustine. After completing her formal education in St. John’s County School District, India earned an Associate’s degree from St. Johns River Community College and a Bachelor's degree in Sociology from Bethune-Cookman College. With her “the sky is the limit philosophy”, India later earned an MBA from Phoenix University. Being well equipped with outstanding interpersonal skills, application of best practices and personal drive, India maintained a long standing career in social work with emphasis on child welfare, family reunification and “coaching” adults to become the best version of themselves.

India was the mother of one son, Anthony Lamar Hayward. At an early age she began to learn about Jesus and later confessed Him as her Savior. She was a member of the Mt. Tabor First Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Karl N. Flagg.

Although India was known for her captivating smile, it was never bigger nor brighter than it was 14 years ago on the day when she became united in holy matrimony with Donald Jerome Williams. Donald and India enjoyed many fun filled adventures and numerous experiences that created endless memories.

India had a passion for shopping and consistently showed up looking like she was a model fresh off the runway, a true fashionista. Her appearance always reflected pride, style, class and grace.

India enjoyed spending time with family and friends. She was a quiet social butterfly who enjoyed gatherings often filled with laughter. Every chance she got, India would snap a picture to capture the moment. During get-togethers with family and friends, it became very clear that India was extremely competitive. Even though she didn't say much of anything when she started a game, her mannerisms, quick wit comments and her serious concentrated stares made the people in the room ask each other “Who is THIS woman?” When the “game on” version of India was present, people would wonder to themselves, “Where did the quiet, shy, reserved India go?” India was also a couch champion of several game shows. She often mentioned that she thought she could go on a game show and win BIG.

India’s love for music was best recognized when she got on the dance floor. Her masterful form led on-lookers to say she was light on her feet. She was often observed making her way to the dance floor when “her song” (which seemed like every song) began to play. She knew almost every line dance that was ever created. India’s dance skills were so good she could have given Debbie Allen a run for her money.

The helpful nature that India had was best demonstrated in her community service efforts. In 2021, India was initiated into Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. - Chi Delta Omega Chapter where she committed to render service to all mankind. She was also a member of the Northeast Florida Rotary Club and the local chapter of the Elks Lodge.

India was preceded in eternal rest by her brother, Juan Lawton.

India received her heavenly wings on Monday, June 15, 2026 at Community Hospice and Palliative Care Bailey Center for Caring, St. Augustine with her devoted husband by her side.

Precious memories of India remain with her loving husband, Donald J. Williams; son, Anthony Lamar Hayward; bonus daughter, Ashley Williams; grandson, Landyn Williams; parents, Elder Charles Bennett and Paula Odom; sister, Miriam Xenia Williams; brothers in law, Lavern Williams, Darian Williams, Theophilus Jackson, James Jackson, Bobby (Devonia) Smith, George (Cynthia) Wilson; sisters in law, Rhoda Ferrell, Cassandra Williams, Katrina Williams, Hildegard Felder, Loretta Jackson, Patricia Ann Gibbs, Michele Jackson-Session, Robbie (Carl) Cunningham, Rhonda Whitley, Stephanie (Anthony) McCoy-Glover, Leslie Brown; uncles, Barry Scott, Vincent Scott, Joseph (Ann) Chestnut; god parents, Kenneth “Kent” and Elnora “Pinkie” James; god sisters, Joann Evans and Cherise Scott; god daughter, Jamia Hardy, as well as a host of other family members and dear friends.