Donald Williams Sr.

Donald Williams, Sr., fondly known as “Big Don”, was born on September 23, 1935 in Cincinnati, Ohio to the union of the late Warner Sr. and Louise Williams. To this union was added three sons, Warner (Duke) and Walter (BO), who preceded Donald in death. Donald was a member of Greater Liberty Baptist Church where he enjoyed singing in the choir. He attended and graduated from Withrow High School where he was a track star. Donald departed this life August 25, 2023.

Donald united in Holy Matrimony to Elzephia (Bonnie) Bannister on April 19, 1956, who preceded him in death. To this union were born three sons and one daughter, Donald Jr., Warren (Pete), Gregory and Falicia.

Donald was employed at the Frito Lay Company and later worked for the City of Cincinnati Metropolitan Sewer District (MSD) as a supervisor, where he retired after 36 years of service. In Donald’s youth, he enjoyed riding horses and swimming with his buddies. He would advance from horses to riding motorcycles and cars, where he eventually turned in motorcycles for vans. He never had less than two vehicles in the driveway. He was a very good athlete with a love for playing baseball, football and softball. He played for several different leagues around the city. He spent years coaching Little League baseball with the Kensil organization, including coaching his son. He had a very deep love for his brothers and was very fond of his nieces and nephews: Karen, Warnetta, Pee Wee, Celle, Niece, Velle, June, BOBO, Mike, Adrian, Sam and Eddie; including his life long friend, Ronnie Washington.

Donald is preceded in death by his wife, Elzephia; his son, Warren Keith; his parents, Warner and Louise Williams; and two brothers, Warner Williams, Jr. and Walter Williams, Sr. Donald will be deeply missed. He leaves to cherish his memory: two sons, Donald Williams, Jr. and Gregory (Arnetta) Williams; one daughter, Falicia Gayle Williams; five grandchildren, Donald (Tamara) Williams III, Danielle (Antwan) Doyle, Branden (Shiquita) Williams, Anaiah Yvonne Williams, Adriannah Michelle Williams; seven great-grandchildren, Arian, Amorah, Amani, Esme, Arys, London and Lynden; and a host of cousins, other relatives and friends.

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