Rev. Donald Hammond Williams, 85, of Valparaiso, passed away peacefully on November 13, 2024, surrounded by his devoted family. A man of unwavering faith, boundless kindness, and profound wisdom, Don leaves behind a legacy of love and service that touched countless lives. Born on Valentine’s Day 1939 in Baltimore, Maryland, to Harry F. and Doris H. (Hammond) Williams, Don embodied the warmth and compassion befitting his birthdate. He was a patient listener, a steady guide, and a constant source of encouragement to everyone fortunate enough to know him. Don had a rare gift: he made every person feel seen, heard, and unconditionally loved.
A scholar and a shepherd, Don pursued his calling with fervor, attending Valparaiso University for undergraduate studies and then earning a Master of Divinity from Concordia Seminary in St. Louis. In 1974, he and his beloved wife moved their young family from Florence, South Carolina, to Valparaiso, IN, where Don served as pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church. For 30 years, he poured his heart into his congregation, bringing the Scriptures to life and teaching his flock that they were each named as Children of God, called to serve Him, and promised the Kingdom of Heaven.
Don’s influence extended far beyond the pulpit. He taught theology at Valparaiso University for twenty-eight semesters, inspiring young minds with his deep understanding of faith and the world. As President of PACT (Prisoners and Community Together) for 17 years and a former leader of the Florence South Carolina Symphony Board, he was a tireless advocate for education, the arts, and the power of social justice. Among his many accolades, he was especially honored to receive the Dan Gall Award, recognizing his lifelong dedication to service. Music was another of Don’s great passions. He adored classical and organ music and played an instrumental role in establishing the music program at Immanuel Lutheran Church and School, ensuring that worship through song would thrive for generations to come.
Starting in the late 1980s, Don and his loving wife Lorna started to venture abroad as Directors of Travel Ministry for Educational Opportunities. Together, they led sixteen trips to Israel and visited over fifteen other countries including Russia, Turkey, Greece, Germany, Italy and more. They journeyed to learn about other cultures while deepening their faith through fellowship, song, and prayer. Above all, Don cherished his family. His love for them was his greatest joy and his proudest achievement. Whether teaching life lessons, sharing a laugh, or simply enjoying quiet moments together, Don's presence was a gift his family will forever treasure.
He is survived by his loving wife, Lorna; his three children, Elizabeth Chatwell, Stephen Williams, and Katherine Dean (Tim); his four grandchildren, Max and Owen Chatwell and Cecil and Colin Dean; and his dear sister Beth Boyett (Art). Together, they will continue to carry forward his legacy of love and service.
A Memorial Gathering will be held November 30, 2024, from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM at Immanuel Lutheran Church 1700 N. Monticello Park Drive, with a Memorial Service beginning at 12:00 PM. Interment of ashes will follow in the Immanuel Lutheran Church Memorial Garden. The congregation is invited to join the family for a late lunch following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials are requested to the Immanuel Lutheran Church Building Fund. Though our hearts are heavy with loss, we rejoice in the promise Don so often shared: that he is now at peace in the Kingdom of Heaven, embraced by the God he so faithfully served.
GUESTBOOK
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Pastor Don was an amazing part of my life and the many lives that he touched. -Michele (Marcus) Hernandez & Family
It was our pleasure to have known Pastor Don for many years, starting with his being an RA to Tom during Tom’s freshman year at VU. He was a big part of our children’s life as they attended Immanuel Lutheran school. We enjoyed traveling with he and Lorna and have very good memories of being in Italy with him. So sorry for your loss but he will be remembered by many for all the good he did. Love, -Barbara and Tom Magnetti.
May Pastor Don rest in peace with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We still remember our marriage counseling with Pastor Don back in 1978 and appreciate his wisdom and guidance! -Rod and Cheryl Traff
Don was neighbor of mine for many years in Ridgewood Creek. I will miss his calls re. what was going on in the adjoing tennis court. And now many improvements have happened and now he will miss that. God Bless Don and Lorna. -Robert E Jacobs
Don was our pastor, friend and neighbor on Jefferson St. We enjoyed fellowship with him, Lorna, and their family, and enjoyed his sermons at Immanuel. Rest in peace. -The Dallmann Family
