William Lewis Donaldson Sr.

Mr. William Lewis Donaldson, Sr., 95, of Twin City passed away Friday, April 24, 2026, at his residence.  He was born in Twin City on November 9, 1930, to the late George Warren Donaldson and Ruby Ellie Cowart Donaldson.  Lewis was preceded in death by his parents; daughters, Marsha Lynn Donaldson, Sharon Donaldson Smith; sisters, Mary W. Searson, Lillian Ruby Donaldson, Ruth D. Watson; brothers, J.E. Donaldson, Frank Donaldson, Donny Donaldson. 

Lewis 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, he 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, Georgia. Throughout his professional life, he 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.

Lewis was deeply involved in his community. He 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.

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), Suzanne Smith Boyer (Brian); great grandchildren, Chase Donaldson, Ethan Donaldson, Aiden Donaldson, Ava Donaldson, Kaylee Roberts, Maggie Smith, Jayden Stone, Jillian Hampton, Olivia Hampton, Emmett Watson; great-great granddaughter, Stella Donaldson; several nieces, nephews, and many friends. 

Funeral service will be held on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at Bethel Primitive Baptist Church with Elder Sam Bowen and Elder Will Martin officiating.

Interment will follow in Bethel Primitive Baptist Church cemetery.

Family will receive friends 1 hour prior to service at the church.

Pallbearers will be Mr. Lewis’ grandsons.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Bethel Primitive Baptist Church in memory of Mr. William Lewis Donaldson, Sr.

Condolences may be expressed at www.durden-hudsonfuneraldirectors.com

Durden Hudson Funeral Directors is in charge of all arrangements for Mr. William Lewis Donaldson, Sr., 95, of Twin City.

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