Utella Ritenella Bartley was born on July 5, 1939, in Constant Springs, Portland Jamica, to Arthur Bartley and Doris Lindsey. From humble beginnings, she grew into a woman of extraordinary strength, quiet determination, and unwavering faith. On February 23, 2026, she peacefully completed a rich, satisfying life, leaving behind a legacy that will echo through generations.

As the youngest child and only daughter among three brothers: Mas Babo, Alman and Ginal, her father, Brother Arthur, affectionately nicknamed her “Queenie” a moniker that remained with her throughout her life. While much of her early childhood remains untold, she developed a lifelong love of flowers and plants, delighting in their beauty and nurturing presence. She also enjoyed crocheting, an expression of her creativity and the care she so naturally gave to others. In 1975, with courage that would define her life story, Utella migrated to Springfield, Massachusetts. She made the painful but purposeful decision to leave her children and family in Jamaica so she could establish a foundation for their future. Through dedication, commitment, and persistence, she reunited with her children within five years – and shortly thereafter, the rest of her family followed. She didn’t just open doors; she built them.

On November 17, 1984, she married the love of her life, Nurval Williams. Their union was one rooted in devotion, partnership, and enduring commitment. Together they built a life grounded in faith, hard work, and love. Her Faith was the anchor of her life. On August 12, 1995, she became a dedicated, baptized Witness of Jehovah, a commitment she carried with dignity and conviction. Her spirituality was not simply professed – it was lived daily through kindness, service and steadfast hope. Utella was deeply devoted to her foundation home and business at 76 3/4 Maxfield Avenue in Jamaica. There, she became known affectionately as “Grandma” to the community. She shared her time between the United States and Jamaica, devoted to nurturing the deep connections she held dear. Her doors were open, her table was generous, and her heart made room for everyone. She served her community faithfully, offering guidance, support and a listening ear. If strength had a postal code, it would have been 76 3/4 Maxfield Avenue.

She leaves to cherish her memory her beloved husband, Nurval Williams; and her children: Denise (Aubyn), the late Linton, Pam, Wayne (Sonya), Donnette, Phillip (Alkie) and stepson Delroy; devoted cousin Verna “Jenny”; niece, Yanique (affectionately her bonus daughter); Aunt Enid and a host of other family, loved ones and friends. She was blessed with 24 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren, each a living testament to the foundation she laid.

Utella’s life was a masterclass in sacrifice, resilience, and love. She understood that real wealth isn’t counted in dollars but in the lives you lift, the family you unite, and the faith you keep. Her hands build a legacy; her prayers secured it. Though she is taking a rest, her work remains alive in the hearts of her family and the community she nurtured. Well done, good and faithful servant.

Memorial Service to be held from 2:00 PM until 4:00 PM on Saturday, March 14, 2026 at Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 1821 SW 97th Avenue, Miramar, Florida 33025.

Arrangements entrusted to Boyd-Panciera Family Funeral Care, 1600 N. University Drive, Pembroke Pines, Florida 33024.