Donna Alberta WILLIAMSON

1939 - 2021

DONNA ALBERTA WILLIAMSON June 24, 1939 - June 19, 2021 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, UK, 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. 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. In lieu of a memorial service, please go to https://earthsoption.com for her In Memoriam and to leave a tribute to Donna or a message for the family. In the spirit of her kind and philanthropic nature, a donation to the charity of your choice would be an appreciated commemoration.