Cephas " Durham Williamson

Pete was born in Americus, GA and was the son of the late Christie Durham Williamson and Sara Stroup Williamson. He is survived by his daughters, Christy Lynn (Michael) Wilson of Irving, TX, Joy Kay Williamson of Indianapolis, IN, and Hope Ann Schmeling of Clayton, OH; and his brother-in-law, John William Kisters. A sister, Sara Christine Williamson Troxell preceded him in death.

Pete learned the value of hard work growing up on a farm in Southwest Georgia. He excelled academically and at 4-H, earning multiple awards, including the 4-H National Citizenship Award. After obtaining his BS from Emory University, he graduated from the Candler School of Theology, beginning his life of ministry. After assignments to three parishes in the United Methodist Church, Pete entered the United States Navy Chaplain Corps. There, he served in protestant ministries for Navy and Marine Units, including multiple deployments. Following his naval service, Pete served as the chaplain for the Veterans Administration. Following retirement from the VA, he continued his ministry as the chaplain at the State Developmental Center in Fort Wayne. He was a life member of the DAV and Elmer Pond 1.

Pete was known for his thoughtful and deliberate character, but when he saw a strawberry blond with crystal blue eyes and a radiant smile working in the offices of the Epworth-By-The-Sea Conference Center, he knew without hesitation that he had found the woman with whom he would share almost 60 years of love and adventure. He was a devoted father to three daughters, actively participating in school committees and an enthusiastic audience member for musical activities. Known for his sense of humor, he took full advantage of the rights conferred on him through fatherhood to always have a dad joke at the ready.

Pete was a talented musician who played several instruments. Gifted a beautiful tenor voice, he particularly enjoyed singing his favorite hymns while accompanied by Elaine on the piano. Pete was also a prolific writer, composing his own verse and contributing regular letters to the opinion section of local newspapers, earning the Golden Pen award for his efforts. He later became involved in pet rescue, welcoming into his home a series of very good dogs who lived their best life under his care.

Pete had a long and full life and many close to him preceded him to his eternal reward. Those who remain take comfort in the knowledge that, having completed his life of service, he is in the presence of his Lord, and the embrace of his family and friends.

Visitation will be on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Homes, Maplewood Park, 4017 Maplecrest Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46815, from 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm, with a funeral service to begin at 3:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be directed to The Disabled American Veterans or donor's choice:

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