Kali Shammara Marie Williamson-Marshall

Kali Shammara Marie Williamson-Marshall peacefully entered eternal rest on Sunday, December 14, 2025 with her wife Brandi Marshall by her side. She was born on September 20, 1975 in Hempstead, New York to mother Gloria Ann Ford and legendary NBA basketball player, the late John Lee Williamson.

She briefly lived in California as a child, where she attended middle school and graduated from Sahuaro High School in Tucson, Arizona. From there, Kali pursued her career in the hotel industry in Dallas, Texas as a sales coordinator and sales manager for Homewood Suites. Kali spent many years of her career working for Starwood Hotels in Florida and Connecticut. She also earned a Crystal Star during her time with the company. Prior to her passing, Kali was pursuing a degree in Information Systems Management from Southern New Hampshire University.

Kali will be remembered for her community activism and fundraising, often giving away back-to-school backpacks for disadvantaged children. Kali and her best friend Nicole Melendez, founded C.H.O.I.C.E.S (Children Helping Others In Community & Environmental Services), an after-school program for young girls. She is also the co-founder of the Newhallville Community Matters where she donated food, clothing and blankets and launched small community based seminars. She also continued her father’s legacy by promoting the John Williamson Basketball Tournament each year. Kali was a beach lover and avid traveler. Some of her favorite destinations were India, Thailand, France, and the Caribbean. She loved to binge-watch her favorite crime shows, and looked forward to family game nights.

Kali leaves behind to cherish her memories her wife, Brandi Marshall, sons Frank Hockaday, Jr. and Jon Williamson (fiancée Allie Harding), daughter Nyla Williamson, brothers Glen Ford and John Williamson, sisters Channon Williamson and Shareebah Williamson, and a host of aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces and cousins.

A Celebration of Kali's life will be held on Tuesday, December 23, 2025 at Agape Christian Center, 90 Goffe Street, New Haven, 11am. Viewing will be held in the Church from 9am-11am. Following the service, burial will take place at Beaverdale Memorial Park. Condolences may be expressed at colonialfunerals.com.