Donna Jean Williams, 79, of Newnan, Georgia passed peacefully from this life on January 11th, 2024.

Donna was born August 30th, 1944 in Ellwood City, Pennsylvania to parents Charles and Geraldine (Sirianni) Ferrante. She grew up in Miami, Florida alongside brothers; Richard, Bob, and Jim. 

She was a class of 1962 graduate of Edison High School. Donna continued her education at Miami-Dade Junior College, obtaining her associate’s degree. She then went to Florida State University to obtain her Bachelor of Science Degree in Education and Florida International University for her Master of Science Degree in Education.

Donna was introduced to the love of her life, Richard Williams by a mutual friend and knew right away that she wanted to spend the rest of her life with him. The happy couple were married on June 22nd, 1968 at The Cathedral of St.Mary in Miami, Florida. They enjoyed a beautiful life together for more than 55 years.  

Donna had a long career in the Miami-Dade County Public School System, teaching for 34 years. Upon retirement in 2006 Donna and Richard moved to Bluffton, SC and enjoyed an active lifestyle for  17 years. They loved Bocci Ball, and participated in several clubs and projects in their community. Donna volunteered in a local computer class to teach others skills she was proficient at.

The couple moved to Newnan, Georgia in 2022 to be closer to family. She was devoted to her family and loved to spend time with each of them whenever she could. Donna enjoyed many hobbies including reading, creating beautiful flyers, pamphlets & greeting cards, baking, and keeping up with current events. She and Richard loved date nights out to the theater in Hilton Head and to dinner.  

Donna was lovingly described by a cousin in this way, “Take comfort in the wonderful memories with her over the years and the blessings  she has brought to the world. The positive impact she had on so many, like her students, neighbors, friends, and cousins is deep and wide. Her kind, gentle nurturing  demeanor has been constant and influential from my early childhood all the way into my 50s.” 

Donna was preceded in death by her parents Charles and Geraldine (Sirianni) Ferrante. She is survived by her brothers and sisters in-law: Richard Ferrante of Miami, Fl, Robert (Bob)&Adena Ferrante of Rising Fawn, GA and James (Jim)&Diann Ferrante of Sharpsburg, GA. Many nieces and nephews: Tammy Ferrante Becker & Mattias Becker of Senoia, GA, Phillip Curl of Senoia, Jonathan Curl & Caitlyn of Atlanta, Kristen Ferrante Howser & Matthew Howser of Sharpsburg, GA, Juliana Howser of Athens, GA, James Howser & Justin Howser of Sharpsburg, GA, Robert W Ferrante, Jr. &Sherri Ferrante of Tallahassee, FL, and Emily Ferrante of Tallahassee .

Donna is deeply loved by those who knew her and will be missed by all who had the pleasure of meeting her. A private celebration will be held in March.

The Williams family is being assisted by Georgia Cremation – Fayetteville, 1086 Hwy 54 W, Fayetteville, GA 30214