Donna E. Williams

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Donna Estelle Williams, a beloved grandmother, mother, and friend to many, who passed away peacefully at Sherman Hospital in Elgin, Illinois, on May 17, 2025, at the age of 83.

Born on October 18, 1941 at Sherman Hospital in Elgin, the only child born to Lawrence Broecker and Estelle Green Broecker. Donna’s vibrant spirit and genuine interest in others drew people to her effortlessly. Whether through her business, Pearl Lake, or support groups, Donna cultivated a remarkable circle of friends who cherished her dearly.

Donna was a 1959 graduate of Elgin High School and an alumna of Elgin Community College. She had a varied career in the Elgin area, including work as a telephone operator, at the Daily Courier News, and at Park Tile & Carpet. In 1980, Donna founded and owned Fox Valley Book Keeping & Income Tax Service in South Elgin, from which she retired in 2000.

In 1962, she married Larry Johnson with whom she raised one daughter. In 1973, she married Wallace Williams, who passed away in 1990. In 1992, she married Charles “Red” Reuter, who passed away in 2005.

Donna spent much of her time at her cherished Pearl Lake in South Beloit, Illinois. She was the lake’s longest-standing seasonal resident, starting in 1975. Donna’s time here was made special by her many lifelong and newfound friends. For the last 25 years, she also lived part of the year as a “snowbird” in Bostwick, Florida, near her stepson and his family.

She is survived by her daughter, Debra (Robert) Chin; her granddaughter, Laura Chin; step-son, Mike (Karen) Williams; and step-granddaughter, Katie Williams; her goddaughter, Carrie (Jeff) Smith; and a host of dear friends who were like family to her.

Her family will host a visitation on Wednesday, May 28, 2025 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Willow Funeral Home 1415 W. Algonquin Rd., (one half mile east of Randall Rd.) Algonquin/Lake in the Hills, where funeral services will be held on Thursday, May 29, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. in the funeral home chapel.

Interment will follow at Lakewood Memorial Park in Elgin.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in her name to the American Heart Association.

Donna’s legacy of love, friendship, and kindness will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her and receive her greeting cards. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the hearts of her many friends and family.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Donna E. Williams, please visit our floral store.