Fund for Williams family

Help us support Jason as he honors the memory of his wife, Shani, who died suddenly in early October.
We are devasted by the loss of a wonderful light in this world, Shani Williams. Shani was smart, funny, warm, and had a quiet energy that made her a delight to be around. Shani was also extremely kind; kind not only to the people around her, but to the many animals in her home and professional life as a veterinary technician. Shani leaves behind her husband of over two years and partner of over 12, Jason Williams.

Jason is a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Florida studying, among other things, the taxonomy of ants. Like Shani and her love of animals, Jason unified his home and work life when, in 2016, he named a species of ant after his wife, Prenolepis shanialena, honoring both her first and middle name. Shani Alena, meaning “marvelous light,” described her well.

 We are asking for donations to provide the services Shani deserves, and likewise ease the burden on Jason as he walks through his darkest tunnel without his brightest light. Your support will make it possible to honor Shani's memory with a funeral and memorial service, and offset the financial costs of these preparations which are overwhelming for a graduate student on a stipend.

 Our goal is to raise $7000 by mid-October. Thank you for your generosity