Thelda Williams, who served as mayor of Phoenix, passed away at the age of 82 after a fight with cancer.

Williams had the unique distinction of being the city’s highest-ranking official three times. Furthermore, she was a member of City Council for over two decades.

Mayor Kate Gallego commented, “Thelda Williams has had a major impact on the lives of every person in Phoenix, from bettering Sky Harbor International Airport to improving our transportation system to ensuring we use our water resources with care. She truly cared for the people of Phoenix and its future, and her legacy will remain for generations to come. Our sorrow is immense, and we express our sincere condolences to her family whom she held so dear.”

In 1989, Williams began her tenure on the City Council. She re-ran for Council in 2007 and remained there until the conclusion of her third term in 2021. After the resignations of Mayors Paul Johnson, Terry Goddard, and Greg Stanton, the City Council elected her to act as interim mayor.

By Tuesday at sunset, flags at all of the city’s locations will have been lowered in memory of Williams.

Williams leaves behind a son and daughter, along with three grandsons. Her husband, Mel – formerly a Phoenix police officer – and daughter, Chris, have both passed away.

Thelda Williams left behind an unforgettable legacy for the City of Phoenix. Many believe that Phoenix and District 1 saw extraordinary development under Thelda’s command. Phoenix would not be in its current location without Thelda’s hard work. Her absence will be profoundly felt.