Don Williford

CLAYTON - Jamie Donald Williford, 80, passed away on Wednesday. He was born in Johnston County to the late Jamie Lee and Ruby Belle Godwin Williford. Don will lie-in-state from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM on Friday, the 14th at Bryan-Lee Funeral Home in Garner (family will not be present). A visitation will be held on Saturday, from 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM (with family present), followed by a Funeral service at 11:00 AM, both taking place at Oakland Presbyterian Church, 8927 Cleveland Road in Clayton. Don was a faithful servant at Oakland Presbyterian Church for over 45 years. During that time, he has served as a Deacon, and three times he has served on the Session. Don was an avid gardener. He and his wife, Mary, grew hybrid tea roses for 47 years. Don was a man of strong faith. Don faithfully attended Sunday school and church and was a model for all of us as a true servant. He always made himself available to serve whenever he was called upon to serve. As Matthew 23:11 says “The greatest among you shall be your servant.” Don faithfully served his church and his Lord. He proudly served the U.S. Navy for 8.5 years, which included two tours in Vietnam. Additionally he served for over 20 years with the Cleveland Volunteer Fire Department. Don is survived by his wife of 53 years, Mary Johnson Williford; son, Edward Williford (Deborah) of Clayton; grandsons, Joshua and Jamie; brother Jerry Williford (Kathy) of Jacksonville, FL and nephews, Ryan and Colton. Contributions can be made to the Oakland Presbyterian Church – Building Fund at 8927 Cleveland Road, Clayton, NC 27520.