Williamson has been credited with helping thousands of gay men who "were told that they weren't loved by their family and friends, employers, politicians, hospitals. [...] It was more about that feeling of hope that she gave to all these people, and they all died." Calling herself a "midwife to the dying", Williamson officiated at funerals, drove men to the doctor, and paid for patients' AIDS medication. Some who worked with her said that Williamson was "at the center" of the tragedy, assisting patients without regard.