Danny L Williams

CANTON ~ Danny Williams, 60, of Canton, was called home to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, July 23, 2016 at his home.

He was born February 21, 1956 to the late Leroy and Coralie Williams.

He was preceded in death by his parents and an infant brother, Joey Leigh Williams.

Survivors include the absolute light of his life, his daughter Charity Beoletto and husband Tovi, along with his precious Tovin and Trulee, who entered this world the same day Danny left it. Also surviving are his stepfather Richard Harkness; brothers Lanny and Terry Williams of Canton and Shawn (Jen) Harkness of Ft. Wayne, Ind.; sister Lori (Harry) Rumler of Canton; numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins; and a lifelong best friend, Mike Tucker.

Danny was a talented piano player who began playing in early grade school with lessons from Mrs. Baccios. He played at all the local churches, as well as churches in Macomb and Peoria. Later on in life he played for pageants and dance recitals at the high school as well as for weddings and school plays (musicals).

He was a former member of the board of directors of the Fulton County Playhouse.

Besides piano being his passion, he had deep passion for working with developmental and special needs children, which reflected in his 27 years of teaching at Macomb Jr. High until his retirement a few short years ago.

Danny was a graduate of Blackburn College, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in music education, and later a graduate of the University of Illinois, where he earned his Master’s degree in the field of special education. He was highly active in Cursillo.

His latest and greatest achievement was earning the proud title “Papa D”given to him by his first grandson, Tovin. Although he never physically met his new granddaughter, Trulee Joy, born July 23, his excitement to meet her was seen by those around him until the time of his passing.

A memorial Mass will be at 11 a.m. Monday, August 1, 2016 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Canton. Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m. Monday at the church.

Arrangements are by Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin

Memorials can be made to www.gofundme.com/danny-w