David C. Williams

David C. Williams, 70, of Wilmington, Delaware, passed away peacefully on June 1, 2025, in the presence of his devoted daughter, Yolanda Williams.

Born on November 27, 1954, in Chester, Pennsylvania, David (known to many as Dave) was the beloved son of Jessie Milbourne and Marcus Garvey Williams. He is survived by his sister, Marquita Scott-Green, and his brother-in-law, Williard "Buddy" Green; his nephew, David Scott; and his beloved cousins Roberta, Sammy, and Danny Price, who were all very special to him. He was also especially close to his late cousins Lorraine, Joey, Carleton, and Pumpkin, as well as his Aunt Catherine, all of whom preceded him in death. He is lovingly remembered by his extended family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched.

In his teenage years, Dave made his mark in athletics, where he took a keen interest in wrestling, competing in statewide tournaments and serving as co-captain of his high school varsity wrestling team. His senior year record of 27-1-1 stood out across Pennsylvania, a testament to his discipline, perseverance, and competitive spirit.

Dave proudly served his country in the U.S. Army for 20 years, enlisting in 1974 and retiring in 1994 with honor and distinction. He was stationed in Germany in the late 1970s, and during his military years, he also served as an airborne medic and first aid instructor, including during the Gulf War (Desert Storm) in January 1990. For a period of time in civilian life, he worked as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), continuing his commitment to caring for others beyond his service.

Dave dedicated over two decades to helping individuals on the path to recovery as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor with Gateway Foundation. During this time, he also became a Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, a Certified Co-Occurring Psychiatric Disorder Counselor, and a Certified 12-Step Counselor, credentials recognized by the Delaware State Board of Certifications. His academic achievements included earning a Bachelor of Arts in Chemical Dependency Guidance in January 2008. In 2016, Dave began a PhD program, which he resumed and continued until early 2024. As part of this journey, he also taught two-hour lectures at the University of Delaware, serving as an intern instructor and sharing his deep knowledge with compassion and authenticity.

Outside of his professional life, Dave was a lifelong music enthusiast and well-known DJ of old-school classics, known to many by his DJ name, “theoleschoolmusichawk… always spinning an hawkin.” He often hosted Saturday night sessions, collaborating with friends such as DJ RoughRider from Illinois and DJ Spincut from Indiana. His vast music collection, spanning over 40 years, was a true reflection of his deep love for rhythm, soul, and community. Dave always brought a sense of “positive but real” energy, inspiring those around him with his uplifting spirit, timeless grooves, and sense of humor.

He often indulged in empowering quotes and affirmations, many of which he shared with his daughter through heartfelt texts, kept displayed around his home, or jotted down as personal reminders of strength and purpose. Dave held a strong belief in God and the presence of a higher power, a faith that grounded his daily life and inspired many of the messages he passed on. Some of his most cherished words included:

“Only those who take on challenges and fight thru them are truly alive!!”

“I am empowered by intention and my virtue is my promise—I am committed.”

“It’s not always about how we fall, it’s how we pick ourselves back up again, feathered by the supporting hands lifting us up too, for hope and success.”

“To thine own self be true.”

“Sometimes the safest bet is to not bet at all”

“Don’t procrastinate because when we do that we limit ourselves from our own potential” - Delstar1..AKA Theoleschoolmusichawk

“Be without fear in the face of your enemies. Stand brave and upright that the Lord may love thee. Speak the truth always, even if it means your death. Protect the helpless and do no wrong.”

Dave will be remembered for his strength, wisdom, compassion, and the deep love he had for service, helping others, family, and music. His presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy lives on in the hearts and memories of all who knew him.

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Bible Verse

2 Timothy 4:7–8

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge,

will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.”

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Poem

“A Silent Tear”

Just close your eyes and you will see All the memories that you have of me Just sit and relax and you will find I’m still there inside your mind

Don’t cry for me now since I am gone For I am in the land of song There is no pain, there is no fear So dry away that silent tear

Don’t think of me in the dark and cold For here I am, no longer old I’m in that place that’s filled with love Known to you all, as “up above”