Obituary of Donald Williams

Mr. Donald Lee Williams, 59 went to be with the Lord on Saturday, June 9, 2012 surrounded by family. A native of Augusta, GA, Donald the younger of 2 siblings was born to the late James Williams Jr. and Edith Counts Williams who preceded him in death.

Funeral Service will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, June 14 in the Montlawn Funeral Home Chapel. Burial with full military honors will follow in Montlawn Memorial Park.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday.

Donald was a longtime resident of Seaside California after 20 years of honorable and heroic service in the US Army. He retired from 4th Bn 21st Infantry Regiment/HHC (Fort Ord, California) and was awarded The Parachutist Badge, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry w/Palm, Vietnam Service Medal, Drill Sergeant Identification Badge, Good Conduct Medal (6), Army Commendation Medal (3rd Oak Leaf Cluster), Army Achievement Medal (3rd Oak Leaf Cluster), National Defense Service Medal, Oversea Service Bars (3), Non Commissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon (2).

After retirement he worked a myriad of jobs from Home Depot, Slautterback Glue, Security Work, and his most recent work family Pergo LLC. He traveled to diverse places around the world in concert with his prestigious Military career before moving to Garner, North Carolina.

He cared dearly about family, friends and humanity; He always strived to do what he could, both alone and with others, to make life better for everyone. He was a member of The Veterans of Foreign War (VFW), The ELK Lodge (IBPOEW), and The Prince Hall Freemasons. He embraced and recognized his responsibility for justice, truth, charity, enlightenment, freedom, honesty and integrity in all aspects of human endeavor. He made a positive difference in the lives of children, youth, seniors, veterans, and others less fortunate in various communities around the world.

Donald will be especially remembered by many for his intestinal fortitude, and his willingness to give of himself (love, wisdom, and monetary support) in order to help those in need even if it meant he would have to go without the bare necessities of life for a short period of time. He was a man of many words that spoke freely from his heart. He believed in Aiming for Excellence every time he stepped on to the field to play the game of life.

He was effectually known as Bro Williams, Pops, Uncle Donald, Sarge, and various other names that were a direct reflection of his heart filled radiant character. He was a consummate master of soldiering, golfing and shooting pool. Those who knew him well will always remember what time it was when he rendered the 4 finger point. Smile!

Donald leaves to cherish his memories two sons, James Williams (Yvonne) Garner NC, Charles Watson (Rolanda) Anchorage Alaska, Sister: Priscilla Johnson Rock Hill SC, Sister-in-law: Gloria Taylor (AJ), Johnnye Montgomery (George), and Grace Lloyd (David); brothers-in-law: Isaac Watson II (Cleora), Terry Watson, special friend Denise Davis; and two grandchildren whom he loved dearly; Javion Williams and Jabari Watson a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, friends, and his beloved Hercules and Gigi Williams(Dogs).

He was preceded in death by his ex-wife: Charline Watson, and Brother: James Williams.

The family of the late Donald Lee Williams wishes to acknowledge with deep appreciation the many comforting messages, floral tributes, prayers, and many other expressions of kindness and concern evidenced at this time in thought and deeds.

Special thanks to his recent Work Family (Pergo LLC.) for your past and continuous support.

May God Bless and Keep You

Arrangements are by Montlawn Funeral Home, 2911 S. Wilmington St., Raleigh, NC www.montlawn.com.