Obituary of Donald Condon Williams

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Donald Condon Williams of New Maryland, New Brunswick, on August 24, 2025, at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital. Born at home in Glencoe, Nova Scotia, on August 31, 1944, Donnie was a proud Nova Scotian and a cherished son of the late John and Elda (Campbell) Williams.

Donnie was the devoted husband of the late Carol Ann Williams, with whom he shared over 54 wonderful years of marriage. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and family.

He is survived by his two sons, Jamie Williams (Leslie) of Mazerolle Settlement and Andy Williams (Lori) of Charters Settlement; grandchildren Chelsie, Jackson, Andrew, and Larry; step-grandchildren Ellie and Kate; Andrew’s mother, Sandra Howatt; his sister Aggie Turner of Nova Scotia; sister-in-law Elaine Bugden of Nova Scotia; and his dear friend Kathy Margeson of New Maryland. Don also leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews who held a special place in his heart.

In addition to his parents and his wife Carol Ann, Donnie was predeceased by his brothers Jackie and Jimmy.  A graduate of Pictou Academy, Donnie began his career in the jewelry industry in Truro, NS, starting from the ground up, becoming a manager within a year. As G.B. Murphy Jewellers grew so did his responsibilities. He worked travelling throughout the Maritimes to oversee the construction and opening of many new stores, eventually relocating to Dartmouth, NS in 1972 to further his career. He continued on with Peoples Jewellers after they purchased many of the G.B Murphy Jewellers stores. Hogan’s Jewel approached Donnie in 1981, looking for a manager for their Fredericton, NB based jewelry stores. He accepted the position and, with his family at his side, relocated to Fredericton, where he worked until his retirement in 1996. He returned to the jewelry business for a short time from 1997 to 1998 at Charm Diamond, returning to retirement for the remainder of his years where he would on occasion work small contract jobs to pass the time.

Known as “Don” in New Brunswick and “Donnie” to those who knew him in Nova Scotia, he was a passionate car enthusiast. He and Carol attended countless car shows across the Maritimes, often bringing more than one vehicle and rarely the same one twice in a row. Donnie was a familiar sight around town, proudly driving his 1951 Mercury pick-up truck.

Donnie was immensely proud of his sons and their accomplishments, but nothing brought him more joy than his grandchildren. Among his final words he expressed how proud he was of being a grandfather. He was a constant presence at birthdays, school concerts, graduations, and sporting events—never missing a moment, even if it meant braving cold arenas or rainy fields.

Over the years, Don generously gave his time to help others—whether it was lending a hand to friends and family or supporting charitable causes. He participated in door-to-door canvassing and, alongside Neil Colwell, made a meaningful contribution of time and care to the New Brunswick Community Residences Supportive Housing Programs.

Donnie’s legacy is one of love, dedication, and quiet strength. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Visitation will be held at McAdams Funeral Home (160 York St., Fredericton, NB) on Thursday, August 28th, 2025, from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm and 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm.  A funeral service will take place on Friday, August 29th, at 2:00 pm at the St. James Presbyterian Church (1991 Hanwell Road, Hanwell, NB), Rev. Wendy MacWilliams will officiate,  with a reception following. The service will be live streamed via Facebook and You Tube: @stjameshanwell.