Fallen Hero: Retired Sergeant First Class Danny Thomas Williams

Forrest, MS

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Funeral Home

Ott & Lee Funeral Home

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Obituary

Look Military Service Tribute, Honors, and Obituary:

Recognizing and Honoring a Fallen Hero who Served in the Mississippi National Guard. “Fallen, Yet Not Forgotten.” In recognition of our proud American tradition of honorable service, which our military men and women have given to their country and our state, we honor a Fallen Hero. Our nation, our state, and the National Guard Association of MS (NGAMS) regard memorializing its retired military deceased as an honorable and sacred obligation. Another great Soldier and Fallen Hero has been released from duty, passed from our ranks on September 8, 2026 and has moved on to his heavenly home.  Retired Sergeant First Class Danny Thomas Williams, age 78, Forest, MS, who served with 4th Battalion, 114th Artillery Regiment has departed and gone to a better place with our Lord and Savior.

It takes a special person to serve in the military for their country, sacrificing time with family time, comfort, and safety to ensure all Americans can enjoy their freedoms, safety, and way of life. We now applaud you for your service to our country.

A special message from General Douglas MacArthur remains relevant today for our servicemen who have passed: “Old Soldiers never die; they just fade away.” Rest in peace, soldier. We honor your patriotism, sacrifices, and brave efforts in serving our country and your family’s support of your service. We thank you for your service. Without your efforts and your families’ support, our country would not stand so boldly, shine so brightly, and live so freely.

You have now earned your rest, so go fly with the angels, go rest high on that mountain; your work on earth is complete. Go to heaven a-shoutin’ love for the Father and the Son.

Another great soldier has gone home—“Fallen, Yet Not Forgotten, Soldier for Life.”

Obituary, Visitation, and Service Details:

Danny Thomas Williams, age 78, of Forest, Mississippi, passed away peacefully on September 8, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on April 13, 1948, in Laurel, Mississippi, Danny lived a life defined by service, humility, hard work, and an unwavering devotion to those he loved.

Danny was preceded in death by his parents, Gladys Warren Williams and Jack Thomas Williams.

He is survived by his devoted wife and best friend, Peggy Burkes Williams, who remained by his side until the very end. He is also survived by his sons, David Chad Williams (Kerby), Tommy Glen Williams (Kim), and John David Williams (Jennifer); his cherished grandchildren, Emily Williams, Easten Williams, Ella Williams, and Wyatt Williams; his sister, Wanda Williams McGhee; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Danny and Peggy were married on September 6, 1969, and shared a remarkable marriage spanning 57 years and 2 days. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, and an unwavering commitment to one another. Through every season of life, they remained devoted partners, raising their family and creating a legacy of love that will continue for generations.

A graduate of Northwest Jones High School, Danny enjoyed playing football and formed many lifelong friendships during his school years. The values of teamwork, perseverance, and dedication he learned on the field remained evident throughout his life.

Danny proudly served his country in the Mississippi National Guard for 38 years, retiring as a Sergeant First Class (SFC), E-7. During his military career, he served in food service operations, taking great pride in caring for and supporting fellow soldiers. His years of service reflected the leadership, dependability, and dedication for which he was known.

A member of Ephesus Baptist Church in Forest, Mississippi, Danny’s commitment to serving others extended far beyond his military service. For many years, he drove the church bus for senior adults, transporting them to events, outings, and gatherings throughout the region. He genuinely enjoyed the friendships he developed along the way and found great satisfaction in helping others remain active and connected to their church family. His quiet acts of service reflected the servant’s heart that defined much of his life.

Danny had a deep love for horses, animals, the outdoors, and the rural Mississippi way of life. Whether participating in horse shows, riding trails with friends and family, or taking part in the Dixie National Wagon Train, he treasured the fellowship, adventure, and memories created along the way. Through those experiences, he passed on to his children a lifelong appreciation for horses, animals, and country life.

As a young father, Danny volunteered as a Cub Scout leader, T-ball coach, and Little League coach, always finding ways to spend time with his children and encourage them in their activities. He later coached a women’s softball team that included his wife Peggy and her sisters, bringing the same enthusiasm and spirit to the field that he brought to every part of his life.

One of Danny’s greatest gifts was his ability to teach and lead by example. Working alongside his sons, he instilled a strong work ethic, practical skills, and the belief that anything worth doing was worth doing well. The lessons he taught extended far beyond the task at hand and became guiding principles throughout their lives.

Danny also took great pride in his grandchildren and treasured every opportunity to spend time with them. Nothing brought him more joy than watching his family grow and celebrating their accomplishments.

Whether serving his country, supporting his church, or investing in his family, Danny’s greatest fulfillment came from helping others. Family was not simply the most important part of his life; it was the center of everything he did.

Above all, Danny will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, mentor, and friend. His steady presence, quiet wisdom, generous spirit, and dedication to his family leave behind a legacy that will continue through the many lives he touched.

Service Information

Visitation

Friday, September 11, 2026 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Ephesus Baptist Church 3535 Ephesus Road Forest, MS 39074

Funeral Service

12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Graveside Service

1:00 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.

Pallbearers

• Larry Crimm
• Dave Rushing
• Garrett Risher
• Tucker Bell
• Tommy Harrison
• Eddie Harrison

Honorary Grandson Pallbearers

Easten Williams

Wyatt Williams

Honorary Pallbearers

• Deril Jones
• Sammy Mauldin
• Otis Almond
• Lamar Harrison

The family extends their sincere gratitude for the prayers, kindness, and support shown during this difficult time.

While his family grieves his passing, they rejoice in a life well lived and find comfort in the values, love, and example he shared throughout his 78 years. His example and the values he shared will continue to guide those who knew and loved him. Danny will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Ott and Lee Funeral Home of Forest is entrusted with arrangements.I