A radiant soul who brought light and laughter to every life she touched.
Pené Ana Williams, 18, of Atlantic, Iowa, passed away on November 14, 2025, at Children’s Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska, surrounded by her loving family.
Born May 8, 2007, at Cass County Memorial Hospital, Pené was the cherished daughter of Gary and Debra (Paulsen) Williams. She graduated from Atlantic High School in May 2025 and was excited to return this fall as a special student to continue her education.
Pené was an active member of Saint Paul’s Lutheran Church and was baptized into God’s love on December 14, 2008.
Her presence was unforgettable—Pené had a gift for brightening every room she entered. She could recognize a friend’s voice from around the corner and never missed an opportunity to remind you to stop in and say hello. Her warmth, humor, and kindness touched countless lives.
She loved being out on the boat, feeling the waves splash against her skin, and spending time wherever people gathered—always ready to share her thoughts. While most people have a favorite show, Pené preferred the most colorful, lively programs she could find. And if you were watching something she didn’t like, she’d let you know!
Pené inspired everyone around her to grow, cherish life, and never take for granted the blessings God provides. Her smile was contagious and left a lasting impression on all who met her.
Even in passing, Pené gave the greatest gift of all—the gift of life. Through organ donation, her heart, liver, kidneys, and more were shared with those in need, granting others a second chance and continuing her legacy of love and generosity.
She was a beloved sister to Amanda (Josh) Winslow of Decorah, Iowa; Aaron (Kelly) Williams of Marne, Iowa; Gus (Mindy) Williams of Marne, Iowa; Maisie Williams of Shenandoah, Iowa; Charity Williams of Waynesville, Missouri; and Cody, Quinton, Victoria, Jody, Preston, Eli, and Jack Williams, all of Atlantic. She was also adored by all of her many doctors and nurses, one of whom was waiting for her at Heaven’s Gate. She also had many teachers, aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews, even a great-niece who brought her joy.
“Those we love don’t go away; they walk beside us every day—unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed, and forever dear.”
Public visitation with the family will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Atlantic, IA.
A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, November 21, 2025, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, with Rev. Lauri Boysen officiating. A luncheon will take place following the funeral. Interment will take place at Brighton Township Cemetery just north of Marne, IA.
Memorials may be sent to the Pene Williams Family and will be designated later in her memory. They can be mailed to the Schmidt Family Funeral Home, P.O. Box 523, Atlantic, IA 50022.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the Schmidt Family Funeral Home of Atlantic, IA.
