Nellie "Clara" Williamson

Nellie “Clara” Franks Williamson, 82 of Sylva, passed away Thursday, August 21, 2025. She was born in Jackson County, NC, on September 26, 1942, to the late Fred and Viola Pressley Franks. Clara enjoyed shopping, traveling, going out with friends, and spending time with her family. She worked as a cosmetologist where she met many of her friends. Clara was a member of Zion Hill Baptist Church.

She is survived by her daughters, Jan Staffelbach (Steven), Donna Browning (Chris Sanders); son, Paul Funderburk (Heidi); grandchildren, Shanna Gilmer (Robert), Stephanie Stoneburner (Dan), Phoebe Funderburk, Ollie Funderburk; great grandchildren, Alexander Rose, Andrew Gilmer, Addalynn Stoneburner, Austin Stoneburner; brother, Clyde Franks. Several nieces and nephews also survive.

In addition to her parents, Clara is preceded in death by her husband, Ray Edward Williamson.

Funeral Services will be held at 3:00pm on Sunday, August 24, 2025, at Zion Hill Baptist Church. Rev. Eddie Stillwell will be officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6:00-8:00pm on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at Appalachian Funeral Services.