Donavan Hale Williams

Donovan Hale Williams passed away peacefully in his sleep in the early morning hours of March 30, 2026, just two days after celebrating his 86th birthday.

There will be no visitation. A funeral service will be held at 2:00 pm, Saturday, April 11, 2026, at the Randy Kiesau Memorial Chapel located in Kiesau-Lee Funeral Home, 2500 W. Modelle Ave, Clinton, OK. Interment will follow in the Arapaho Cemetery, Arapaho, OK.

Don was born on March 28, 1940, on his family’s farm in Putnam, Oklahoma, to Donald Ewell (“Dude”) Williams and Vivian Esther (Clark) Williams. As the oldest of four children, and only son, he was raised with the values of faith, hard work, and family that would guide him throughout his life.

At the center of Don’s life was his beloved wife, Vonnie (Waugh). They were married for 63 years and loved each other deeply. Their marriage was marked by devotion, partnership, and unwavering commitment. In later years, as Vonnie’s Parkinson’s disease progressed, Don devoted himself to her care until her passing in October 2025. His steadfast presence was a testament to his enduring love.

Don began his career with the Internal Revenue Service in July 1962, shortly after marrying Vonnie. His 34-year career took his family to eight cities, where he built lasting relationships with colleagues and friends. After retiring from the IRS, Don began a new role the very next day as manager of the Wells Branch Municipal Utility District, where he worked for another 16 years.

Don was a longtime faithful member of the Churches of Christ. He served as an elder at Withamsville Church of Christ (Cincinnati, Ohio), Western Hills Church of Christ (Austin, Texas), and Southern Hills Church of Christ (Buda, Texas). Wherever he lived and worshiped, Don built meaningful friendships and left a lasting impression on those around him.

Don found joy in simple pleasures—playing bridge, bowling, yard work, watching westerns, and reading Scripture. He gave generously of his time, volunteering with World Bible School and serving on the board of directors for Central Texas Children’s Home. More than anything, he treasured time spent talking with his family. He was a wonderful listener, a steady encourager, and a source of wisdom and comfort.

Though he deeply missed Vonnie, Don remained engaged in life. He continued to live with purpose and faith—attending church every Sunday, participating in senior activities, and joining a monthly men’s dinner group. His resilience reflected both his strength and his enduring spirit.

Don was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Vonnie Williams (Waugh); his son, Shane Williams; his sisters, Katrena Rightnowar and Lorena “Rena” Holland; and his parents, Donald “Dude” Ewell Williams and Vivian Esther (Clark) Williams.

He is survived by his children, Van Williams (Terri), Amy Kranz (Rob), daughter-in-law Julie Williams (Shafer), and Stephen King (Nate). He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren: Kyle Williams, Ashley Callaway (Chase), Michael Williams, Adam Kranz (Erin), Nathan Kranz (Leah), Katie Williams, MacKenzie Williams, Aaliyah King, Amari King, and Alicia King, his great-grandchildren, James, William, and Adalyn Callaway, and his sister, Cheri Farrell (Craig).

Don’s life was defined by faith, devotion, and love—especially the love he shared with Vonnie. That love, and the example he set, will continue to live on in all who knew him.

Services are in the care of Kiesau-Lee Funeral Home.