Bertha M. Arquitt

Bertha Marie Arquitt, Hammond, NY, passed away peacefully on July 25, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. She was 62 years old.

Born on November 27, 1962, in Alexandria Bay, NY, Bertha was the beloved daughter of the late Angeline Amyot and Edwin Arquitt, and sister to the late Harold Arquitt.

She spent her life in the North Country, creating a home full of laughter, strength, and unconditional love.

Bertha shared her life with her devoted partner, Wayne Williams Sr., and was the proud mother of eleven children: Amber (Candice) Benson-Goolsby; Shannon (Keith) Savage; Melissa (James) Davis; Matthew Williams; Sherry (Josh) Smith; Jennifer Williams; Wayne Williams Jr.; Shane Williams; Mariah (Alex) Williams; and Shawn (Chauntaeu) Williams. She was the cherished Grandmother of 20 Grandchildren and one Great-Grandson.

She is also survived by her loving siblings: John (Dottie) Arquitt; Edwin (Lisa) Arquitt; and Theresa Arquitt; as well as many nieces and nephews, whom she loved dearly. Her heart was large enough to embrace not only her family but all the neighborhood kids of Hammond who knew her simply as "Ma".

Bertha dedicated 13 years of her life to serving on the Board of Special Education, a role that reflected her compassion and commitment to others. She was known for her warm spirit, infectious laughter, and her ability to light up a room with her presence. She found joy in the outdoors, but her greatest passion was bringing smiles to those around her and watching her grandchildren play sports.

A faithful Catholic, Bertha lived her life guided by love, humor, and strength. Her legacy of kindness and resilience lives on in every life she touched.

Funeral services will be announced by the family at a later date.

A celebration of life will be held Sunday, August 3rd from 12 noon until 6:00 pm at the Hammond Fire Hall. All who knew and loved Bertha are welcome to attend and celebrate her remarkable life.