David Wilfred Williams
1954 - 2025
David "Butchy", 71, of Dawn Township, passed away at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance, Chatham on Sunday, November 23, 2025. He leaves behind a legacy of loyalty, devotion, and quiet strength that touched everyone who knew him.
Born and raised in Dawn Twp., son of the Late Donald “Plug” and Ruth (Miller) Williams. Dave spent his entire life rooted in the land and community he loved. He served with pride as a firefighter and former chief of the Dawn-Euphemia Fire Dept. for over 30 years, dedicating himself to protecting others with the same steadiness and courage he carried in every part of his life. When he wasn’t serving his community, he was working the fields as a full-time farmer, happiest on the land he knew so well and surrounded by the John Deere equipment he took such joy in. Dave was involved in many different organizations as well.
Dave was many things to many people, a uncle, a brother, a father, a grandfather, but to his daughter Celeste McMurphy (Jordan) he was a best friend. His grandchildren Emma and Parker adored him and Dave was known by all as the best grandpa ever. A special thank-you to Krystal our amazing caregiver for Dad. A deepest thank you to his closest friends, who shared in his work, his stories and his happiest moments. Another special thank-you to Scott & Hedy Kramer the friends who were like family to Dave.
“to my dad, thank you for being my best friend in this world. I will forever cherish the bond we shared and it was a bond like no other, I love you beyond words, I will see you again one day.”
At Dave’s request there will be no visitation or funeral service. Cremation has taken place. Interment of cremains in Blackburn Cemetery at a later date. A Celebration of Dave’s Life will be held at the Dawn-Euphemia Community Centre, 6213 Mill St.,Florence on Saturday, December 13, 2025 from 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM. Donations to the Parkinson’s Society of Southwestern Ontario (online at https://psso.ca/how-to-help/donate/ or mail a cheque to 123-4096 Meadowbrook Drive ,London, ON N6L 1G4) would be appreciated by the family. Online condolences and donations may be left at www.badderfuneralhome.com. Arrangements entrusted to the Badder Funeral Home, Dresden.