Della May Williams died on February 9 at Sequoia Springs in Fortuna. She was 96.

Della was born in Centralia, Washington but spent most of her early life in Morton, Washington. She married Dale Cooper in 1946. In 1947 they moved to Fortuna with their daughter Kay. Della and Dale had three more children, Jerry, Jean and Tom. After 17 years of marriage they divorced. Della was later married to Woody McDaniel. After his death she married Edward Barff, who died in 1997. Della spent many of her later years with her companion and traveling partner, Blake Armstrong. They enjoyed seeing the country in their fifth wheel.

Della worked as a telephone operator, in newspaper advertising, and as a bookkeeper for local saw mills, before beginning her career in real estate. She spent many years at Town and Country Real Estate. She often said that she enjoyed all of her various jobs but had a special love for real estate.

She enjoyed many hobbies, including softball, bowling, painting and travel. Della loved to sing, and music was a big part of family life. She also loved big family gatherings.

Della will be missed by her many friends and family. She is survived by four children, many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. A private graveside service will be held for the family.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Jen Ballew’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.