The Legacy of Myrna D. Williams

Brooklyn’s Stylish Educator

By Dior Williams

Myrna D. Williams, my grandmother, was a trailblazer in every sense of the word—an educator, community builder, world traveler, entertainer, and renaissance woman of style, creativity, and elegance.

Born and raised in Brooklyn, she grew up in Bedford-Stuyvesant in a family of artists. Her mother, Eleanor Boyce Edwards, was a pianist and poet who, with her husband, James Edwards, my stern, disciplined grandfather, instilled in Myrna a deep love for culture and the arts. Through them, she learned focus, work ethic, organization, grace, and an appreciation for her Bajan heritage.

Myrna was the beloved sister of Milton Edwards, the well-known musician, and Eric Edwards, executive director of the Cultural Museum of African Art housed at Bedford-Stuyvesant Restoration. Myrna was a straight-A student, attending P.S. 3, M.S. 258, and Erasmus Hall High School.

She was valedictorian of M.S. 258, a proud accomplishment that showcased her dedication to academic excellence. After high school, Myrna attended Brooklyn College, where she earned her degree in early childhood education, becoming a reading specialist and mathematician.

At the age of 17, Myrna gave birth to her first child while working at Dime Savings Bank in downtown Brooklyn. Even with the challenges she faced as a young mother, Myrna excelled in her studies and continued her academic journey. After earning a bachelor’s degree and a master’s in reading from Brooklyn College, she pursued an advanced graduate study degree in Administration and Supervision from City College.

For more than three decades, Myrna dedicated herself to the education of minority children. She was known for her innovative teaching strategies, which included an interdisciplinary approach that integrated subjects like current events, poetry, social studies, and African history.

Her passion for education led to her appointment as Reading/Language Arts Coordinator for Community School District 17 in 1987, where she provided professional development to elementary- and middle-school teachers. Myrna also introduced the Lincoln-Douglass Debates and worked tirelessly to revitalize school libraries through the Library Power projects.

Whenever the opportunity came, Myrna would emphasize to her staff that ALL teachers are teachers of reading, and therefore, every teacher needed to incorporate reading skills into their lessons. Her belief in the power of reading across all subjects led to her promotion to Assistant Principal at Middle School 246 in 1990.

She later became the Principal of Public School 399, where she continued to inspire her faculty and students, all the while maintaining a firm belief that every child could succeed if supported by caring, dedicated educators. As a principal, Myrna encouraged her teachers to show up for their students with style, poise, and grace through fashion, believing that the way one presents themselves has a lasting impact on students’ development.

Beyond her work in education, Myrna was a true citizen of the world. She had an adventurous spirit and a deep curiosity about different cultures. She traveled extensively to countries across Africa, India, Istanbul, Italy, China, France, and Russia, always eager to immerse herself in the rich histories and traditions of these places. She also took a special interest in learning about her ancestry in Barbados, reconnecting with her roots and deepening her appreciation for her heritage.

Among her many destinations, the Caribbean held a special place in her heart, with St. Thomas being her absolute favorite. She frequently visited other Caribbean islands, as well as Hawaii, where she indulged in the beauty, warmth, and traditions of island life. Her travels were not just vacations—they were experiences that shaped her worldview, reinforced her love for history, and fueled her passion for education.

Myrna was also deeply involved in her community. As the president of the Gates Avenue Block Association (GABA), she organized some of the most memorable block parties in Brooklyn, where her passion for community and celebration came to life.

The events were filled with more food than anyone could eat, the best music, and a lively atmosphere. Myrna went all out—arranging for horses from Black cowboys, providing double Dutch ropes, and setting up bouncy houses to keep the children entertained. Whether it was a family gathering or a block party, Myrna created an ambiance of joy and luxury, making sure everyone felt welcomed and included.

Myrna was a huge founding investor in the New Museum of Modern African Art at Restoration Plaza in Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn, just two blocks from M.S. 258, where she had once been valedictorian. She played a critical role in shaping the museum’s educational initiatives, working alongside her brother, Eric Edwards, to co-found and develop the institution until her passing.

Myrna was passionate about uplifting Black people, particularly the youth, through education, self-worth, and confidence. Her dedication to this mission led her to collaborate with Brooklyn’s most influential leaders and politicians, earning her the respect of one of NYC’s mayors, who personally attended her wake to honor her contributions.

She also had the opportunity to work for many years with the Honorable Sidique Wai and the United African Congress, supporting their efforts to eradicate Ebola. Myrna was also Chair of Delta Sigma Theta’s International Awareness Committee, where she helped raise funds to support Doctors Without Borders in their fight to save African children from starvation. Despite her busy schedule, she always found time to tutor children for free and contribute to Delta Sigma Theta’s Black Book Fair.

Myrna was also known for her impeccable style. She had a love for fashion and a remarkable eye for pairing pieces together. Her skill extended beyond clothing—she was a talented seamstress, often creating costumes for her brother Milton, also known as Boobie Knight, for his performances and album covers. She also designed outfits for herself and always presented herself with elegance and flair.

In 1962, Myrna met her husband, Thomas Williams, with whom she built a beautiful life until his passing in 1984. She is survived by her son, Deryl, and daughter, Charisse; six grandchildren: Dior, Malik, Trayvon, Amira, Dakarai, and Kalyn; two great-grandchildren: Peter and Mekhi; along with a host of relatives, former faculty members, students, sorors, neighbors, and friends.

Her dedication to education, her sense of style, her love for travel, and her commitment to community will continue to influence those who knew her for years to come. Myrna’s legacy is one of empowerment, beauty, and grace, both in the classroom and beyond.
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