Donald Ernest "Donny" Williams

Donald "Donny" Ernest Williams, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, peacefully departed from the bonds of his earthly body on May 22, 2025, in Gainesville, Florida. He was surrounded by the love of his devoted wife of 55 years and his cherished children, whose lives he touched so deeply.
Born on February 24, 1949, in Jacksonville, Florida, Donny was the proud son of the late Ernest and Alfreda Williams. At the age of two, his family moved to Lake City, Florida, where he would grow into a gifted athlete, a dedicated student, and a pillar of the community. A 1967 graduate of Columbia High School, Donny continued his academic and athletic journey at the University of Florida, earning a bachelor's degree in Building Construction while playing football for the Florida Gators. As a team captain in 1970, he led with grit, grace, and an unwavering sense of loyalty-qualities he carried throughout his life. He remained a passionate supporter of Gator athletics for decades.
After college, Donny returned to his hometown and founded Donny Williams Construction, a business that became a cornerstone of Columbia County. Over the years, he constructed more than 400 homes and commercial buildings-each one a testament to his craftsmanship, honesty, and unshakeable integrity. His commitment to excellence was known throughout the region, and his work continues to stand as a lasting legacy.
Donny's faith was the foundation of his life. He accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior as a young boy and pursued a lifelong journey of spiritual growth. He married his high school sweetheart, Sandra Perry Williams, and together they built a home rooted in love, faith, and family. They were blessed with three children-Tonya, Travis, and Tara-whom he guided with steadfast devotion and pride.
A faithful member of Parkview Baptist Church, Donny served as a deacon, Sunday School teacher, and a compassionate leader within the congregation. He gave freely of his time, coaching football for the Boys Club, the Lake City Recreation Department, and Lake City Middle School. He also led church softball teams, always eager to invest in the youth of his community. He was not just a coach, but a mentor, encourager, and role model to many young men, helping them discover their strength and purpose.
Even in the quieter moments of his life, Donny radiated warmth. Prior to his illness, he cherished breakfast gatherings with close friends at Shirley's Restaurant, where conversation often turned to faith, family, and the state of the world. He was a man of conviction, compassion, and quiet generosity-always giving, never seeking the spotlight.
Above all, Donny's greatest joy was his family. His face lit up with pride at every milestone, big or small, and his love for his children and grandchildren was unconditional and abundant. He gave his heart freely and fully, and his legacy lives on through them.
Donny was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Alfreda Williams, and his precious grandson, Ty Alexander Williams.
He is survived by his loving wife, Sandra Williams; his children: Tonya (John) Baker of Alachua, Travis (Elizabeth "Liz") Williams of Rolesville, NC, and Tara (Matt) Hollingsworth of Lake City, FL. He leaves behind a proud and growing legacy through his grandchildren: Andrew (Katie) Baker, Alex Baker, Grace (Aubrey) Starkey, Aspen Hollingsworth, Arden Hollingsworth, Zac Williams, Zoe Williams, and Cali Williams; and his great-grandchildren: Ellie Starkey, Olivia Baker, and Quinn Starkey.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Donny's life and legacy:
Visitation will be held at Gateway Forest Lawn Funeral Home on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM.
A Celebration of Life will follow on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Parkview Baptist Church.
Though his earthly journey has ended, the impact of Donny Williams' life continues to ripple through all who were blessed to know him. He was a builder not only of homes but of faith, family, and community-and his memory will live on in the hearts he helped shape.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Parkview Baptist Church. Give · Parkview Baptist Church
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