Donnie Williams, 79, of Paris, Tennessee, passed away Tuesday, November 28, 2023, at his residence.
He was born Wednesday, October 11, 1944, in Paris, Tennessee, to the late Jack Beale Williams and the late Alma Lee Kimbel Williams. Besides his parents, Donnie was also preceded in death by his sister: Regina Lattimer.
Donnie worked at the TVA garage in Paris, Tennessee, while completing a 4-year apprenticeship program to become a gas and diesel mechanic.
After 28 years of service with TVA, he retired at the age of 50 as a Machinist Foreman at the New Johnsonville Steam Plant.
After retirement, he enjoyed fishing and hunting, spending time with family and friends, especially grandchildren/great-grandchildren, planning high school reunions, riding his Harley, and more.
Donnie loved people and interacting with others.
He always had a smile to share, a joke to tell, and/or a hug to give no matter where he was. He met no strangers and will be greatly missed.
Donnie was married Friday, June 17, 1966, to Lila Cathey Williams, of Paris, who survives.
He is also survived by two daughters: Cathey Williams of Paris, Tennessee, and Nicci (Adrian) Harrod, of Paris, Tennessee; nine grandchildren: Lidia (Cody) Ferrell, Caden Martin, Corban Winston, Shaun Harrod, Jordan (Abigail) Harrod, Davy Harrod, Aiden Harrod, Janna Harrod, and Jesse Harrod; two great-grandchildren: Lila and Laney Ferrell; two nieces: Vicky Stoope and Patty Bell; one nephew: Scotty (Tammy) Collins; and several great nieces and nephews.
Arrangements are being handled by Ridgeway Funeral Home, 201 Dunlap St, Paris, Tennessee.
Memorial visitation will be Sunday, December 3, 2023, at Tennessee Valley Community Church, 2500 E. Wood St, Paris, Tennessee, from 1 – 4 p.m.
A celebration of life will be at 4:00 p.m. Sunday, December 3, 2023, at Tennessee Valley Community Church with Bro. Steve Gallimore officiating.
Honorary pallbearers are too plentiful to name. Throughout his life, there were so many close to him. The family was unable to narrow it down. Donnie loved his friends.
Memorials may be made in Donnie’s memory to the American Heart Association 1818 Patterson Street, Nashville, Tennessee, 37203, or www.heart.org/donate, or to the Henry County High School Fishing Team Booster Club, 790 Stillwater Drive, Paris, Tennessee, 38242.