Donald Eugene Williams Jr.

Donald Eugene Williams Jr., 60, passed away Friday, February 19 in Indianapolis, Indiana, following an illness that accompanied a years-long battle with multiple sclerosis. Diagnosed with MS as a young man, he struggled with the special challenges it presented, yet he met those challenges with uncommon grace and dignity, always upbeat and more interested in the problems of others; rarely complaining as his physical abilities declined.
Donald, always gregarious, made a friend of each one he met, giving a hearty "hello" to anyone within range. In his presence, one always felt that he offered his undivided attention.
Donald was born in Bronx, New York to Donald and Leah Williams in 1955. Siblings Celeste and Michelle would follow. When his father gained a pastorate Jamestown, N.Y., the family moved there, then to Detroit Michigan, later settling in Anderson Indiana, home base for the Church of God. Donald attended elementary and junior high in Jamestown, and graduated from Henry Ford High School in Detroit.
Donald attended James Madison College at Michigan State University in Lansing, Michigan. His public policy studies included a semester of travel and study in Europe. He completed his studies at Anderson University in Anderson, Indiana, where he received a Bachelor's degree in history. He received a Masters degree in history from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.
Always a self-professed "nerd" with a constant thirst for knowledge, he continued to pursue his wide range of interests throughout his life, undaunted by increasing physical limitations. He designed computer systems for a company in Ann Arbor, was a bookseller and even worked in information technology at a federal prison. He loved teaching the most, and held a position as an instructor at Focus: HOPE, an organization in Detroit that acts to help overcome racism, poverty and injustice.
Donald's father was a minister with The Church of God, so naturally, he had a strong faith. Although not an official member of the clergy, Donald Jr. preached many sermons and lead Bible Study classes. He had a strong interest in all faiths, and studied them with great interest. He also loved science and the wonders of the universe, seeing no conflict with his beliefs. His love of music - jazz in particular - matched his joie de vivre.
In his later years as his health declined, he resided at Oakwood Garden in DeLand, Florida, then at Kindred Health Care in Indianapolis. In DeLand, he was a force in motivating many, acting as president of the resident council. That active spirit continued when he moved to the facility in Indianapolis. Rarely did he roll down the hall without greeting everyone with a smile and a wave.
Donald is survived by his sister, Celeste J. Williams (brother-in-law, Greg Fisher), of Indianapolis, and sister, Michelle A. Williams of Orange City, Florida, and a niece, Cheyenne A. Williams of Deltona, Florida. Also surviving are many cousins and a host of friends and acquaintances too numerous to count.
There will be a private burial in Orange City, Florida, where his mother and father, who predeceased him, rest.
Memorial contributions should be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.