David A. Williams

1936 - 2025

David A. Williams
February 27, 1936 - January 18, 2025
Dr. David A. "Dave" Williams, went to God and glory peacefully on January 18, 2025, at the age of 88, in Tucson, AZ. A preeminent educator and beloved community leader, he was born February 27, 1936, in Carthage, MS. David lived his life dedicated to service, education, family and faith.
David's journey began in Carthage, where he met his best friend and love of his life, Beth. Growing up with his three brothers he developed a lifelong love for the outdoors and fishing. He was an avid fly fisherman known affectionately among Lee's Ferry anglers as "Walk-in Dave" on the Colorado River. David found immense joy being on the river with family and friends. He guided his grandchildren to catch their first fish creating cherished memories with each.
After serving his country as a Russian Linguist in the United States Air Force Security Service, David graduated from Northern Arizona University with a teaching degree, and over time both his master's and doctorate degrees in education. He began teaching middle school science and history for Flagstaff Unified School District in 1961 and filled his summers as a National Park Ranger at nearby Sunset Crater and Wupatki National Monument.
Teaching was just the beginning of David's true calling as an educator. His career in education spanned decades and had a profound impact on countless lives. From teacher to principal to Superintendent of the Flagstaff Unified School District, David was unwavering in his commitment to ensure every child had what they needed to learn. His leadership and innovation earned him a spot as one of the Top 100 School Administrators in North America, and his expertise in education and school law was widely sought out. After 22 years with the school district, David moved to higher education where he taught education administration classes at Northern Arizona and Baylor Universities. His versatile leadership skills continued to be called on as Dean of the Center for Excellence in Education and Dean of the College of Hotel, Restaurant, and Tourism at NAU, Interim President of Coconino Community College, and through consultations across Arizona where his knowledge and experience provided invaluable guidance to educational institutions and law firms.
Beyond David's professional career, his dedication to his community and his faith was infinite. His commitment to community was evident through his participation in various organizations and boards including the Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce, Flagstaff Medical Center, Flagstaff Festival of the Arts, Coconino County Guidance Center, and the Museum of Northern Arizona. In Tucson, upon retirement, David spent many hours volunteering at the Pima Air and Space Museum continuing his love of educating. His contributions earned him numerous honors, such as his induction into the Northern Arizona University Hall of Fame and the establishment of the David A. Williams Award for Innovation presented annually in his honor.
David was a devoted member of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Church and always found time to serve, whether leading the collegiate group at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in Flagstaff or serving on the church's national Board of Trustees and the Board of Regents of Wisconsin Lutheran College.
Preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Aline Williams; and his older brother, A. Sidney (Joann) Williams, David is survived by his lifelong companion for nearly 70 years, his wife, Beth. He leaves behind three children: David Marc (Jayne K.) Williams of Flagstaff, AZ, Elisabeth (Lisa) Williams Callan (Bryan) Callan of Issaquah, WA, and Phillip Williams (Shannon Clark) of Flagstaff, AZ. His legacy continues through his five grandchildren: Joshua David Williams (Yira Bermudez) of New Jersey, Anne Elisabeth Williams of Arizona, Jack Clark (Jenna) Williams of California, Ellen Clark Williams of Oregon, and Riley David Callan of Arizona. Four great-grandchildren: David Ryan and Ruby Anne Wichert, and Caleb Marcus and Karina Lee Williams. David is also survived by his two brothers, Marion D. (Shirley) Williams of Alabama and his twin brother, the Rev. Donald B. (Jorene) Williams of Mississippi.
A memorial service to celebrate David's life will be held on February 22, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church, 830 N. 1st Ave, Tucson, AZ 85719.
In lieu of flowers, donation suggestions include the NAU David A. Williams Leadership Endowment Scholarship Fund, established in honor of his lifelong pursuit of education for all; Mt. Calvary Evangelical Lutheran Church in Flagstaff or Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tucson.
David's legacy of love, learning, and leadership will continue to inspire and uplift those who knew him. His life was a beacon of hope and faith, a testament to the power of education and a reminder of the joy found in serving others.
Visit, sign the guest book, and share memories on David's online memorial page at bit.ly/3PP76qp.