Rev. Donnie Larston Williams, Wesleyan Church Pastor, Dies at 74

Rev. Donnie Larston Williams, a devoted servant of the Lord Jesus Christ, passed away on Friday, September 25, 2026, at the age of 74, surrounded by his family. His life was marked by a deep commitment to faith, family, and service. He lived by the biblical principle, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord,” from Joshua 24:15, and his example inspired his entire family to follow in his footsteps.

He is survived by his wife, Debra Conner Williams, with whom he shared 56 years of marriage, their children Alecia Dover and Rev. Donnie “Caleb” Williams, along with their grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his cousin, Mike (Hub) Rogers, who was like a brother to him, and his church family. He was preceded in death by his parents, his infant daughter Sharon Angelique Williams, and his sister, Jean Williams Jones.

Rev. Williams was born in Shelby, South Carolina, and graduated from Shelby High School in 1970. In his early years, he was known for his musical talents as the lead singer and guitarist of “The Trends” and “Freeway South.” Music played a significant role in his life, and his last performance was at the Shelby Country Club on New Year’s Eve 1983. Shortly after, he experienced a spiritual rebirth in August 1983 and transitioned from secular music to contemporary Christian ministry. He formed a group called “Living Proof” and eventually accepted a call to ministry.

Rev. Williams pursued higher education with a focus on Christian ministry, earning a bachelor’s degree from Southern Wesleyan University in 1991 and a master’s degree in theology from Indiana Wesleyan University. He graduated with the highest honor, Summa Cum Laude, from both institutions. He often reflected on his journey, stating, “How did a poor boy from South Shelby graduate from college with a master’s degree? The answer is only by the grace of God!”

His ministry began at the age of 30 when he served as youth pastor and music director at Glenwood Wesleyan Church in Easley, South Carolina, while attending Southern Wesleyan University. He later served as senior pastor at Rockingham Wesleyan Church in Rockingham, North Carolina, from 1991 to 1995. In 1995, he was called to First Wesleyan Church of Kings Mountain, where he served for 28 years until his retirement in April 2023 due to health reasons.

Before entering ministry, Rev. Williams worked as a Plant Supervisor and later Plant Manager at Artex International in Boiling Springs from 1984 to 1991. He also worked at Fiber Industries from 1973 to 1982. During this time, he served in the National Guard at the Kings Mountain Unit from 1972 to 1979.

Throughout his life, Rev. Williams was known for his love of travel, particularly to Williamsburg, Virginia; Cades Cove; and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. He also enjoyed playing golf at the beach and spending time with family. His life was a testament to faith, dedication, and service, embodying the spirit of Ephesians 4:15, which calls for speaking the truth in love and growing together in all aspects of life.

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