Donald Franklin Williams, age 89, passed away on Sunday, October 25, 2026, at Maury Regional Medical Center in Columbia, Tennessee. He was born on November 5, 1936, in Sylacauga, Alabama, to the late Thomas Newton Williams and Mary Laura Pruitt Williams.

Don was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and great-grandfather whose life was filled with family, faith, and a passion for learning. On June 13, 1959, he married the love of his life, Mary Catherine Rankin, beginning a beautiful journey together that spanned more than 67 years. Together, they raised two wonderful sons and built a life filled with love, cherished memories, and countless stories.

A lifelong learner with a curious mind, Don earned his master's degree in counseling from Auburn University. He enjoyed a successful career with Glencoe-McGraw-Hill, where he served as Regional Director of Textbook Sales. His dedication and leadership earned him recognition as a top salesman in the Southeast.

Don had a remarkable appreciation for the world around him. An avid antique collector and lover of art, he found joy in discovering pieces that carried their own unique history. He was also a world traveler who enjoyed exploring new places, experiencing different cultures and collecting memories along the way. A gifted storyteller, Don had a special way of bringing his experiences to life, captivating those around him with his stories and wisdom. His love for reading and learning remained a constant throughout his life.

Faith was also an important part of Don's life. As a member of First United Methodist Church of Columbia, TN, he faithfully taught Sunday School for 16 years, sharing his knowledge, faith and love of learning with others. His commitment to his church and community reflected the values he carried throughout his life.

Above all, Don treasured his family. He took great pride in the lives of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and the love he shared with them will remain a lasting part of his legacy.

Don is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Catherine Rankin Williams of Columbia, Tennessee; his sons, Jeffrey Clark (Pamela Wells) Williams, Sr. of Columbia, Tennessee, and Mark Brian (Teri Lynn Michelle Willson) Williams of Hilliard, Ohio; his grandchildren, Jeffrey Clark (Jessica Love) Williams II and Christopher Rankin Williams, both of Columbia, Tennessee, and Dalton Lane Williams and Dailyn Renee Williams, both of Hilliard, Ohio; and five great-grandchildren, including Sophie Mae Williams, Maggie Allen Williams, Daniel Conner Williams, Cooper Rankin Williams, and Genevieve Melba Williams.

In addition to his parents, Don was preceded in death by his siblings, Tommie Lou Williams Scalzitti and John Robert Williams.

Don will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his unwavering curiosity, his love of storytelling, and the many lives he touched throughout his 89 years. His stories, wisdom, and love will continue to live on through the generations of family he leaves behind.

Inurnment will be held for family and friends at Polk Memorial Gardens on November 14, 2026 at 11:00 am. 

Williams Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences can be given to the family at williamsfh.com.