LaToya Pearil Williams

LaToya Pearil Williams, 52, of Louisville, Kentucky, passed away peacefully on April 19, 2026.

Born on March 9, 1974, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, LaToya was the beloved daughter of Fred and Gayle Williams. She carried with her a strong sense of dedication, warmth, and individuality throughout her life.

LaToya devoted 18 faithful years of service to Humana Military, where she worked as a Credentialing Assistant III. Her commitment to work and colleagues was evident in the pride she took in her role and the relationships she built along the way.

LaToya cherished her time with her beloved son, Dylan. When he was younger, they would often visit the zoo together, creating joyful and lasting memories. As he grew older, they spent many cherished moments watching movies together, continuing their special bond through shared experiences filled with love and joy.

Outside of her career, LaToya lived a life filled with passion, hobbies, and meaningful connections. She was an exceptionally talented pool player and an active member of the Louisville APA Pool League, where she earned multiple championships. Her skill and competitive spirit were reflected in the many plaques she proudly collected over the years.

LaToya also found joy in quieter pursuits, especially building Lego creations, a hobby that brought her peace and fulfillment, particularly after she stopped working. Music was another great love of hers—she was a devoted fan of Eminem, affectionately calling herself “Shady’s lady.” She once attended one of his concerts on her own just to see him perform, and later shared the experience again with her mother at a concert in New York—memories she treasured deeply.

During that trip, LaToya had the unique opportunity to meet Reverend Jesse Jackson, and she and her mother were honored to carry flags for the Muhammad Ali Center, where they also met Muhammad Ali and his wife—moments they cherished for a lifetime. Among her favorite travel memories was a special cruise to Baja, Mexico with her mother, a time filled with laughter and lasting joy.

LaToya loved the song “Black Butterfly” by Deniece Williams and often referred to herself as the “Black Butterfly,” a reflection of her spirit—graceful, resilient, and uniquely beautiful.

Above all, LaToya valued her relationships. She held a special bond with her childhood best friends, Tu Pham and Kara Williams, whose friendship brought her comfort, laughter, and countless cherished moments over the years. She also shared a meaningful friendship with her coworker, Marquita Martin, who was very special to LaToya and held a valued place in her life.

LaToya is preceded in death by her father, Fred Williams Jr.; grandmother, Freddie Mae Woodard; great-grandmother, Elsie Bennett; and great-great-grandmother, Louisiana Bennett.

Left to cherish her memory, LaToya is survived by her son, Dylan Williams of Louisville, KY; loving mother, Gayle Ballard of Louisville, KY; brother, Freddie Williams of Tacoma, OK; aunts, Crystal Woodard and Terry Spencer of Oklahoma City, OK; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Though she is gone from this world, LaToya’s spirit—her laughter, her music, and her “Black Butterfly” soul—will never be forgotten. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Visitation will be held for LaToya Pearil Williams on Monday, April 27, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Louisville Memorial gardens west, 4400 Dixie Highway, Louisville, Kentucky.