Williams named Grandmother of Year
Williams was born in Tennessee, and “no matter where life has taken her, Tennessee has always been home,” the release stated.
She spent part of her childhood in California and later returned to Knoxville as a teenager. Over the years, she has lived in Georgia, as well, but she always found her way back to Tennessee, saying, “This is where my family is.”
Family is at the center of everything for Williams. She is the mother of five children, all of whom live in Knoxville, and the grandmother of nine.
Four of her grandchildren have been in her care since March 2024, a responsibility she embraced without hesitation.
Williams describes herself as “hardworking and family-oriented,” and her life reflects that truth every day, the press release stated. Along with caring for her grandchildren, she works as an order picker at Cardinal Health, “balancing long shifts with the demands of raising young children again.”
When her grandchildren came to live with her, Williams immediately tried to apply for TennCare and Medicaid to ensure they and she had the support they needed. Despite her efforts, she was not successful on her own.
In the summer of 2025, Tennessee Justice Center applied on her behalf; and this time, she was approved for TennCare as a caretaker relative.
“This approval was peace of mind for Williams,” the press release stated. “She has high blood pressure, and staying healthy is essential not only for herself but for the grandchildren who depend on her,” it stated.
“My grandchildren need me,” Williams said. “I need to be here for them and make sure that I am healthy.”
“Her family is close-knit, celebrating holidays together and making time for simple joys, like taking all the kids to the park,” the release stated. “For Tikia, the most rewarding part of being a caregiver is knowing her grandchildren are safe, healthy and surrounded by family.”
“I love the fact that
we are such a close family,” Williams said.
She added she cherishes the bonding time, the laughter and the everyday moments that make their home feel full.
“Tennessee Justice Center is privileged to honor Ms. Tikia Williams as a 2026 Grandmother of the Year recipient,” the press release stated.
