David Williams

December 11, 1956 –June 11, 2025

David was born in Louisiana on December 11, 1956. He died in Minneapolis on June 11, 2025. He married his high school sweetheart, Shirley, and had two sons, Malcolm and Victor. He was a scamp from the earliest age, so, naturally, he grew up to be a Marine. After his military service, he became a professional pipefitter.

Family and Friends

David is survived by: former wife, Shirley Francis Tousignant; sons, Malcolm L. Williams (Karesia), Victor J. Williams (Sheena); grandchildren, Shemuel, KaTina, Malcolm, Marcus and Naomi; sisters and brothers, Glory A. Williams, Jeanette Buckley, Mildred F. Williams (Mark), Russell L. Williams, Barbara G. Williams, Fritz Williams, Jr. (Joyce), Charlene Williams-Mumbo (Charles) and Sharon Cammon Johnson; a dear cousin, Susie “Mama Sue” Emmers; and, cherished family friend, Paul Roberts.

Preceded in death by: mother, Ezell C. Williams, father, Fritz Williams, Sr.; brothers, Roosevelt Williams, Billy R. Williams and Kenneth R. Williams; Great Aunts and Uncle, Hattie “Aunt Sweet” Smith, Dave “Uncle” Crockett and Katie “Aunt Babe” Henry; brother-in-law, Wayne C. Buckley; nephew, Lerell C. Buckley; family friend and mentor, Joe “Captain/Papa Joe” Lewis, lifelong friend and brother soldier, Clyde “Brick” Dawson.

David proudly counted scores of extended family members, including uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, grand nieces and nephews and cousins – each of whom were uniquely cherished.

Gatherings. Sports. Road trips. And TALL TALES!

David was a skilled chef who loved to showcase the food of his Southern roots. Gathering the family around colossal feasts was his continuing mission in life. When gatherings coincided with sports events, it was joyous indeed.

A road trip enthusiast, he would strike out for a given destination and then make a wild detour. Head scratching for any passengers, but a wondrous delight to him.

He lived the long family tradition of Tellers of Tall Tales. It could start as just a run of the mill recollection and then run off the rails. The family knew what to expect. Newcomers would need to be reassured that he posed no clear and present alarm.

David enriched us with his presence. He played many roles in life. Many were drawn to his charismatic presence. He was a proud Marine. His children and grandchildren are his treasures left to the family and to the world. David will rest eternally at the family cemetery in Epps, Louisiana.

A visitation will be held on Friday, July 11th from 1 pm until 4 pm at Sunset Funeral Home, 2250 St. Anthony Blvd. Minneapolis, MN 55418. Flowers may be sent to Sunset, Attn David Williams. All deliveries/gifts should be instructed to arrive before 12 pm on Friday, July 11th.

The family extends its sincere gratitude to the clinical and administrative staff of the Minneapolis VA Medical Center.