fbpx

Obituary

Donovan Eugene Williams

May 17, 1926 - November 5, 2024

Donovan Eugene Williams, born May 17, 1926, passed away peacefully on November 5, 2024, at the age of 98.

A husband, father, and friend, Donovan led a life marked by service, integrity, and dedication.

Donovan was born in Lewiston, NE, and lived a good portion of his childhood in Marysville, KS before moving to Lincoln. Donovan graduated from Lincoln Northeast High School. After graduation he proudly served his country in the United States Navy during World War II. Following his service, he joined the Lincoln Telephone & Telegraph Company, where he spent over 44 years in a distinguished career, ultimately retiring as the Head of all Outside Construction. His colleagues admired him for his commitment, skill, and leadership.

A man of faith, Donovan was a longtime member of Rosemont Alliance Church and The Gideons International, where he actively contributed for over 45 years, sharing his belief and commitment to helping others in their spiritual journeys. Donovan also had a real joy for golf and had played many different courses across the United States.

Donovan was preceded in death by his parents, Alton and Fannie Williams; his first wife, Evelyn (Bradsby) Williams; his son, Donovan Williams II; his brother, Everett Williams; and his sister, Carol Porsche.

He is survived by his wife, Clara (King) Williams; daughters Jamie Kasper (Gary), Gail Smith (Skip), Linda Papke (Todd); son Brent Williams (Janelle); and stepdaughter Lee Ann Grys. Donovan also leaves behind 16 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren.

Donovan’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. A service to celebrate his life and honor his memory will be held at City Lights North Lincoln, 2600 N. 70th Street, Lincoln, NE 68507 on Monday, November 11, 2024, at 10:30 AM.

A visitation with family present will be held from 2:00 – 4:00 PM on Sunday November 10 at Roper and Sons Midtown Chapel, 4300 “O” Street, Lincoln, NE.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The Gideons International, P.O. Box 4513 Lincoln, NE 68504, in his name, in keeping with Donovan’s lifelong dedication to his faith and to helping others.

Services

November10

Visitation

CST

Roper & Sons Midtown Chapel

4300 O St.
Lincoln, NE 68510

(402) 476-1225
November11

Celebration of Life

CST

City Lights North Lincoln

2600 N. 70th Street, Lincoln, Nebraska

Share a Memory or Condolence

November 8, 2024

Don was one my favorite people on earth. He will certainly be missed by me. I’ll be happy to make a donation to his favorite charity.

– Chloe Leet
November 7, 2024

So very sorry for your loss Linda and family. A wonderful long life well lived. Prayers for you and your family 🙏🙏🙏

– Deb Cernik

Obituaries & Services

Bonnie J. Rice

1/15

Russell Charles Brauer

2/15

Margaret A. Kolar

3/15

Ralph Thomas Pfeifer

4/15

Gregg A. Widholm

5/15

Janice R. Slaughter (Zvolanek)

6/15

Mary Jo Anderson

7/15

Leland Emory Swanson

8/15

Nancy C. Van Horn

9/15

Dwaine William George Rogge

10/15

Roger G.  Miller

11/15

Morgan Rae (Baldonado) Yardley

12/15

Gerard (Gerry) R. Finnegan, Jr.

13/15

Walter Richard “Dick” Baker

14/15

Matthew Allen Joy

15/15

Never miss an obituary, sign up for email or text message notifications

We’re here

Grief Support

We understand that grieving doesn’t end after the service. We offer Aftercare for grief support as you process and heal from your loss.

Learn More