Donald Ray Williams

Donald Ray Williams went home to be with the Lord Tuesday, May 7, 2013. A devoted family man and Christian, Donald was born to the late John Solomon Williams and Lucille Perry Williams January 20, 1932.

Donald leaves to cherish his memory his loving and devoted wife of 63 years, Rachel Batts Williams; daughters: Donna Williams Barnes and husband, Willard; Michelle Godwin Jackson and husband, Rusty; and Jennifer Williams Gardiner; son, Jeff Williams and wife, Nan; grandchildren: Katie Barnes Webb and husband, Thomas; Sarah Gardiner, Jeremy Gardiner and David Williams. Together with his wife, Rachel, they were foster parents to several children for many years. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Kenneth Williams and Boice Williams. He is survived by his sister, Jackie Jackson, and his brother, Doug Williams.

A graduate of West Edgecombe High School and Atlantic Christian College, he served in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. His work career included Burlington Industries, Schlage Lock and Rocky Mount Cord Company.

Donald was a member of Arlington Baptist Church and an ordained Deacon, Sunday School teacher, finance committee chairman, and also sang in the adult choir. He also served in the Rocky Mount Evening Lions Club until his health prevented his attendance. His interests included baseball, attending NC State football and basketball games with friends, and antique cars, especially Mustangs.

A celebration of Donald’s life will be held at Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home on Thursday, May 9, 2013, at 2:00 pm with Reverend Tim Lowry of Arlington Baptist Church and Reverend Bill Tomlinson officiating. Visitation with the family will be held Wednesday, May 8, 2013, 7:00 – 9:00 pm, at Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions may be sent to the American Parkinson Disease Association, Inc., Parkinson Plaza, 135 Parkinson Ave., Staton Island, NY 10305-1946.

Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler and Woodlief Funeral Home, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount NC 27804. You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.