David Joel Williamson
David Joel Williamson, age 98, passed away on May 16, 2026.
Born on Feb. 20, 1928, in Hunting Valley, Ohio, David was the son of Edwin and Annie (née Culley) Williamson.
An accomplishment that gave David great pride was earning his pilot’s license even before his driver’s license — one of many stories he loved to tell throughout his life.
While working at a factory in Chester Township, David met the love of his life, Betsy Jane. The two were married on March 18, 1951, beginning a life together built on love and hard work.
David worked as an electrician and retired from Newbury Industries.
Beyond his profession, he was a talented handyman who generously shared his time and skills with family, friends and neighbors alike. Whether helping his son build a shed, rebuilding a neighbor’s railing or rewiring homes for relatives, David found joy in helping those he cared about.
A man of strong principles, David was known for his favorite saying, “my way or the highway,” though he always had a saying ready for any situation.
He deeply loved his country and was proud to call Newbury Township home for more than 70 years. Having moved frequently as a child, creating a forever home meant everything to him. Over the years, he built additions to the property bit by bit, creating a small farmstead where he and Betsy raised their family among ducks, chickens, rabbits, dogs, cats and horses.
David enjoyed tending his vegetable garden, something he loved doing alongside Betsy. Together with their young children, he and Betsy also enjoyed camping.
One of David’s favorite pastimes was watching the Cleveland Browns or Guardians games.
David took great pride in his tractors and his treasured 1998 Mercury Grand Marquis.
In quieter moments, he loved relaxing on the porch watching birds and sitting with family or his beloved dog, Molly.
David’s greatest joy, however, was his family, and he cherished time spent with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
The family extends a special thank you to Mick, nurse at Ohman Family Living at Holly, who became very close with David during his final months. Mick’s compassion, friendship and genuine care brought comfort and joy to David and meant more to the family than words can express.
Visitation will be held at Burr Funeral Home on Thursday, May 28, 2026, from 5-7 p.m. Visitation will continue May 29, from 10-11 a.m., with funeral services beginning at 11 a.m. Following the service, burial and graveside committal will take place at Munn Cemetery.
David is survived by his children, Kathy (Frank) Dragolich, Meri Lynn (Ray) Klingensmith and Barry (Jean) Williamson; his grandchildren, Alicia (Jimmie Jr.) Parker and Kyle Williamson, Frank (Allison) Dragolich, Don (Mariah) Dragolich, Geoff (Cindy) Pulsford, Tom (Anna) Dragolich, Kim (Ryan McMasters) Sutter, Kristin (Tim) Bronkall and Kara (Tom) Berigan, Dmitry Klingensmith, Maria (Dominic) Natoli, Katerina Klingensmith and her fiancé, Daniel Brown, Joshua and Noah Williamson, and Nathaniyl and Yaaqov Mananquil; as well as 22 great-grandchildren.
David also leaves behind his sister-in-law, Juanita Hull.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Betsy; his son Daniel (Joan Chapman) Williamson; and his grandson Gabriyl Mananquil.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Rescue Village, 15463 Chillicothe Road, Novelty, OH 44072 (https://www.rescuevillage.org/)
Arrangements are entrusted to The Original Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.burrservice.com.
