Tag Archives: Serena Kay Williams

Final Note: Serena Kay Williams

Life Member & AFM Local 47 Secretary/Treasurer Emeritus. String Bass
4/9/1921 – 10/4/2025

by Hal Espinosa, President Emeritus

I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Serena. The last time I spoke with her at 103, she never skipped a beat. She sounded like she did while we were still officers at Local 47, still sounded bright, witty and happy. She was helpful to the membership, she was honest, responsible and duty-bound to her office. While I was getting my feet wet as the new vice president, Serena took me under her wing and made sure I knew and understood my leadership role. She was the glue that kept us all going in the right direction. Serena was a sincere and beautiful Lady, and I will miss her dearly!

Photo credit: Overture archival photo – Hal Espinosa with Serena Kay Williams on the evening she received the prestigious Grande Dame Award from the Industrial Relations Research Association, September 2005.

Secretary/Treasurer Emeritus Serena Kay Williams Reaches the Grand Milestone

Serena Kay Williams made history as the first woman officer of AFM Local 47 when she was elected Secretary in 1984, a position she held until her retirement in 2007. Her legacy as a trailblazing musicians advocate and union leader stands as an inspiring tale of dedication, perseverance, and strength. AFM Local 47 President Emeritus Hal Espinosa shares his congratulations to his longtime friend, colleague and mentor in honor of her 100^th birthday on April 9, 2021.

by Hal Espinosa, AFM Local 47 President Emeritus

Serena, less than 1% of all people have the privilege of earning the title “Centurion” and fortunately for us, this has been granted to such a remarkable person. A 100^th birthday is a Grand Milestone and something to be celebrated. I would like to say, “When I grow up, I want to be like you.” Some might say I’m too old to use that line, so instead, I’ll just wish you a very Happy Birthday!
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Legacy of a Leader: Serena Kay Williams

Secretary/Treasurer Emeritus Serena Kay Williams holds Local 47 dedication day programs from 1950 and 2018, both of which she attended. (photo by Tom Pease)

Serena Kay Williams made history as the first woman officer of AFM Local 47 when she was elected Secretary in 1984, a position she held until her retirement in 2007. Here we recall her legacy as a trailblazing musicians advocate and union leader.

Serena Kay Williams was born April 9, 1921 in Kansas City, Missouri. Serena’s father, who was born in Liverpool, England, came from a musical family. In fact, Jascha Heifetz was her grandfather’s nephew. Her mother, who came from Russia, also counted many artists in her family. Serena’s parents owned a deli in Kansas City. Their cooking was so renowned that her father was crowned the “Chili King of Kansas City” using her mother’s recipe.

When Serena was 4 her parents moved to Los Angeles because of her mother’s health. Serena cared for her mother, who was very ill, and even was issued a special driver’s license at the age of 12 so she could take her mother back and forth to the hospital. Continue reading →