William Lewis Donaldson Sr., age 95, of Twin City, passed away Friday, April 24, 2026, at his residence. Funeral service was held Sunday, April 26, at 3:00 p.m. at Bethel Primitive Baptist Church with Elder Sam Bowen and Elder Will Martin officiating. Interment followed in Bethel Primitive Baptist Church cemetery. Family received friends one hour prior to service at the church.
Pallbearers were Mr. Lewis’ grandsons.
Lewis was born November 9, 1930, in Twin City, to the late George Warren Donaldson and Ruby Ellie Cowart Donaldson. He graduated from Emanuel County Institute in 1948 and went on to faithfully serve his country in the United States Army during the Korean War. During his time in service, Lewis spent 14 months overseas and served a total of three years and three months. He was a proud member of the 44th Engineer Battalion, 3rd Army, and was awarded five Bronze Stars for his participation in multiple campaigns.
Following his military service, Lewis built a long and successful career with Independent Life, where he worked for 38 and a half years. He retired in 1994 as a manager in McRae. Throughout his professional life, Lewis was an active member of the Swainsboro Life Underwriters Association for 35 years, holding every office, including President, and was a longtime member of the President’s Club. He was deeply involved in his community. Lewis served on the Emanuel County Institute Board of Trustees and was a member of the Twin City Lions Club for 10 years. His faith was an important part of his life, as he was a devoted member of Bethel Primitive Baptist Church since 1955, where he served as a deacon. He also served as Clerk of the original Upper Canoochee Association for 15 years. Lewis will be remembered for his dedication to his country, his profession, his church, and his community. Mr. Donaldson is preceded in death by his parents; daughters, Marsha Lynn Donaldson and Sharon Donaldson Smith; sisters, Mary W. Searson, Lillian Ruby Donaldson and Ruth D. Watson; brothers, J.E. Donaldson, Frank Donaldson and Donny Donaldson.
Survivors include his wife of 74 years, Jenene J. Donaldson; son, Lew Donaldson (Tammy) of Twin City; daughter, Joanie Adams (Mike) of Evans; grandchildren, Wes Donaldson (Debbie), Alex Donaldson (Becca), Bill Donaldson (Krystal), Matt Lindsey, Rhett Smith, Erica Smith, Rann Smith Cogdill (Lloyd) and Suzanne Smith Boyer (Brian); great grandchildren, Chase Donaldson, Ethan Donaldson, Aiden Donaldson, Ava Donaldson, Kaylee Roberts, Maggie Smith, Jayden Stone, Jillian Hampton, Olivia Hampton and Emmett Watson; great-great-granddaughter, Stella Donaldson; several nieces, nephews, and many friends.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Bethel Primitive Baptist Church in memory of Mr. William Lewis Donaldson, Sr.
Durden Hudson Funeral Directors was in charge of arrangements.
