Rev. Dr. Marla Lynnette Williams is the First Lady of Christ Cathedral Baptist Church, where she wholeheartedly dedicates herself to its ministries and members. In January 2011, Mrs. Williams began a Women's Ministry for the sisters of Christ Cathedral, "Women of Wisdom." In January 2026 she began a Women’s Mentor Ministry which opened the door for seasoned women to wrap their arms around young women struggling with a carnal life while navigating their Christian walk. The purpose of each ministry is to biblically encourage and enrich women's lives to live Godly and be an earthly example of God's expectations. She also serves on the Praise Team and The Mass Choir. 

​

Dr. Williams is the wife of Pastor George R. Williams, Jr., and the mother of two loving daughters, Gabrielle Rayvon Williams and Genae Raychel Weigand (Jared). On December 17, 2017, Dr. Williams became licensed as a Minister. On June 26, 2022, she was Ordained by her husband, Pastor Williams, to preach and teach the Word of God. On December 16, 2025, she received her Doctor of Ministry Degree from Ashland Theological Seminary. On January 30, 2026, she became an author by launching her dissertation into a book titled, “Lord Let The Change Begin In Me.” Her personal ministry continues within the community where she was born and raised.

​

On June 14, 2024, she retired from the Detroit Public Schools Community District after thirty-six years of educating children with exceptional needs as a certified special education teacher. As a retiree, she spends most of her days educating Adults with Autism in the Macomb Intermediate School District. During her tenure with DPSCD, she attended Wayne State University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary and Special Education with a concentration in Mental Impairment and a Master of Education degree in Early Childhood Development. In December 2017, she was recognized by radio station Mix 92.3 FM as Teacher of the Week for Outstanding Contributions and Dedication to the Students of Detroit Public Schools. In January 2019, she was a guest of Governor Gretchen Whitmer for her first State of State Address. Dr. Williams received two standing ovations as a teacher who goes over and beyond her students' educational requirements, which she cares for as if they were her own. She is also a Certified Biblical Counselor and counsels alongside her husband as the Holy Spirit leads them to encourage, restore, and renew the right spirit in the lives of God's chosen people. 

​

In addition to her professional endeavors, she also serves as the Assistant Chaplain in the community with her loving Sorors, the Women of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Alpha Rho Omega Chapter. Dr. Williams is humbled in knowing that surrendering to the "Will of God" will elevate her spiritual walk as she uplifts others. It's not about her , , , it's all about Him.