Wednesday, September 6, we lost a fierce Leatherwoman and Elder in our community, Master Ces Williams passed away. Her wicked sense of humor, fierce determination, and gregarious character will be deeply missed. She was steadfast in what she believed, loyal to those she loved and never met a stranger. She could take a moment in time and make it an unforgettable experience.

Master Ces co-founded Women in Leather International (WILI) with Caro in 2009. There were not many women's groups and they wanted Leatherwomen to be able to connect and hold women's space. Everywhere Master Ces went she encouraged women to become involved and the group quickly grew to almost 200 members. She worked tirelessly to promote WILI. Even when she was competing for IMsL she was handing out palm cards for WILF and talking to people about WILI.

Master Ces didn't stop with just WILI, she also created and produced Women's International Leather Fest (WILF) that debuted in June 3-5, 2011 in Dallas, Texas. The event provided workshops that were women's only space and a seperate track for men. Women's International Leather Legacy (WILL) contest was held in conjunction with WILF each year. Master Ces produced WILF for three years before retiring, at which point she passed the reins, and WILF and WILL were merged to become WILL Weekend.

Master Ces was always finding ways to be involved and help others in the community. She was a mentor, an Elder, and an amazing artist.

Thank you Master Ces for all you accomplished and the things you taught me. You will be deeply missed.