The Williams Syndrome Association mourns the passing of our dear friend, Pam O’Halloran Blevins, a remarkable advocate, organizer, and mother to Kelsey (WS). Pam dedicated her life to creating connection and joy for our adult community, especially through her decades of work with The Dream Team alongside Jan Beard.
From Oklahoma to Florida, Pam’s energy and compassion knew no bounds. Whether she was leading virtual gatherings, cheering at in-person events, or simply reaching out to make someone feel seen, Pam made sure our older adults with Williams syndrome were not only included but celebrated.
She worked tirelessly to make the world better for everyone, but most especially for our loved ones with Williams syndrome. Her kindness, determination, and love leave a lasting mark on the WSA community and all who had the privilege of knowing her.
The following are reflections about Pam from the WSA community:
From Terry Monkaba, Retired Executive Director, WSA: As one of the members of the WSA’s first group of Board members, Pam O’Halloran had a 40-year history with the WSA. And whether is was as a Board member, a regional director, the founder (in 1994) and leader (for 31 years) of the WSA’s adult/Dream Team program, a convention session leader for parents, or water aerobics leader for adults with WS….she handled each task with the same passion to help others learn and compassion for all who she came in contact with, that made each one of us feel lucky to be working with her, or learning from her, or laughing with her. To put it simply, Pam had that “something-special” and we were so fortunate to have Pam in our WSA family. Pam never met a stranger, and made every newcomer – whether parent, professional, or individual with WS – feel welcomed and “at home”. Our WSA “family” is far better to have had Pam in its midst and will not be the same without her.
From Jan Beard, co-leader of The Dream Team: Another beautiful person, inside & out, gone too soon! Pam was the sweetest, kindest, most loving person. Mama Pam to so many of the WSA Dream Team & a great friend to my family! We lost her husband Randy earlier in the summer! Randy was so funny & just a comedy show to be around! They are now reunited in Heaven! I loved them both so much & am at a loss for words! Prayers please for my family, the WSA family, Pam & Randy’s family & especially for their daughter Kelsey
Sarah Schaefer, WSA Executive Director: Our hearts are broken at the loss of such an incredible human. Pam leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love, countless wonderful memories, and a void that can never be filled. We’re forever changed because of Pam - and her impact will never be forgotten.
We are deeply grateful for all Pam gave: her time, her heart, and her unshakable belief in the power of connection. She will be profoundly missed, and her legacy will continue to shine in every Dream Team gathering and every life she touched.