Donna Alberta Williamson

In lieu of an in-person gathering, we welcome your participation in this memorial website to celebrate Donna’s life. Please click on the Tribute Wall button in the menu to view uploaded pictures and messages or to share your own tribute to her, a message to the family, or photos. DONNA… Beloved wife, mother, and grandmother • Dearest sister and friend • Gifted teacher • International traveller • Book lover • Crossword-puzzler extraordinaire • A font of knowledge and keeper of memories • The one we turned to for acceptance, thoughtful insight, and her wise perspective • Kind, steadfast, patient • A bright mind and all-round lovely light in this world Donna Alberta Williamson (née Youngblut), 81, of Victoria, BC, passed away on June 19, 2021, at home with her loving family. She was born to the late Albert and Helen Youngblut on June 24, 1939, in St. Catharines, Ontario. After graduating from St. Catharines Collegiate in 1957, Donna received a B.A. Honours in English from Victoria College, University of Toronto in 1961. She obtained her teaching certificate from O.C.E. and earned her M.A. from U of T in 1966. Over the span of her career, Donna taught several different subjects, including English, literature, women’s studies, and ESL. In 1971, she began at Humber College in Toronto, where she taught for nearly 25 years and where she met her husband, Peter Williamson. Upon retirement they moved to Lancaster, England, Toronto, and then Victoria, BC, in 2004. Donna is survived by her husband, Peter; her daughters Kevyn Lee-Genest (Gilles), Hilary Lee, and Andrea Williamson (Robin); her stepson Alasdair Williamson (Susan); her siblings Doreen Monro, Denise Chalmers (Bob), and Peter Youngblut (Gunna); and her many beloved nieces, nephews, and grandchildren. She was predeceased by her sister Dale, and brother-in-law, Bruce. Always understated, Donna’s gentle, thoughtful demeanor hid a sharp and passionate intellect, deep principles, steadfast strength, and an acceptance and tolerance that led us all by example. She excelled quietly in all her endeavours, and if we were lucky, we caught glimpses of her hidden delightful feisty spirit peeking through. Known for her literary prowess, she was also a notable actress at university, a lifelong avid reader and crossword-puzzler, a keen scrabble player, a caring supporter of many charities, and a very dear friend. Through the years, she had many other passions and interests. Here are just a few: • In her early years, dancing, debating, and a love of academics • Language, words, writing, and of course books, books, and more books! • Travel, particularly in Europe and North America, and especially with friends and family • Music, live concerts, season tickets to the symphony, theatre • Women’s rights and issues • CBC radio (She didn’t like to miss Quirks and Quarks!) • Backyard bird-, animal-, and garden-watching • Tirelessly playing endless games of Milles Bornes, Monopoly, Go Fish, or whatever else was of interest to her grandchildren Donna’s life was rich with many important relationships. From her husband of 43 years to her children and grandchildren, her three siblings, her life-long friend, Sandra, and many other long-lasting friendships, these were all cornerstones in her life. She belonged to several wonderful book clubs over the years which also motivated, uplifted, and enlivened her, including two long-standing ones in Victoria, BC. One of the most extraordinary gifts in Donna’s life was her group of girlfriends from childhood who continued to keep in touch over the decades, becoming yearly adventure and travel companions in later years and most recently meeting weekly via Zoom. This special group of women meant so much to her, and was a great source of joy, support, and inspiration in her life. Her husband has been her greatest admirer and supporter throughout. And she has known and felt the deep love of her children regardless of physical distance through the years. She was a mother through and through, who wanted to look after those she loved. Not being one to call attention to herself, she wouldn’t likely appreciate the effusive descriptions here, and they cannot do justice anyway to this refined, subtle, intelligent being. Donna was a thoroughly lovely person to know and be with, and her lively mind, calm, sweet presence and loving companionship will be deeply missed. Thank you to all of Donna’s friends, family, and acquaintances old and new for enriching the life of such a beautiful person. She has most certainly enriched all of ours. In the spirit of her kind and generous nature, please consider a donation to the charity of your choice as a fitting and appreciated commemoration.