First Miss Universe Turns 80 This Week

Armi Kuusela Williams rarely goes to her native Finland without being surrounded by media. It’s the price the she pays for making history in 1952 when she was crowned the first “Miss Universe. ”That happened a lifetime ago, says Williams modestly, “I don’t talk about it much.” Her days as “Miss Universe” opened many doors, including travel around the world and a starring role, playing herself, in the Finnish movie, “World’s Most Beautiful Girl.” Williams is forever grateful. “But 62 years is a long time ago… I want to be remembered for other things, not just for being Miss Universe.”

She became a businesswoman and good will ambassador. When her husband died in 1975, Williams took over management of the family hotel properties in Manila. She has served as an honorary counsel for Finland, and was knighted by the Finnish government two years ago, earning the Order of the White Rose.

In 1978, she married American diplomat Al Williams. After living in Barcelona and Turkey, they settled in La Jolla in 1991. Here she has supported cancer research and numerous cultural and arts organizations, including co-chairing San Diego Youth Symphony’s program for disadvantaged youth. In fact, many who meet Williams today remain unaware of the international spotlight she commanded at age 17 when actress Piper Laurie crowned the 108-pound beauty queen. Williams just celebrated her 80th birthday at her family’s home in Finland. She is delighted to have made it there and back without word leaking out to the media.