Coach Leo Williams, Jr.

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16

Some people bring such a great light to this world that after they are gone, the light remains. On May 15, 1940, which was a beautiful spring day in Brunswick, Georgia, God blessed Leo
Williams, Sr., and Gertrude Hall Williams, with an amazing son named Leo “Coach” Williams, Jr., who became a guiding light for the lives that he touched. Only God knew that his pilgrimage through life would involve the task of planting seeds that would grow forever and that his life's light would consist of shaping and molding young minds.

Obtaining and maintaining a quality life was emphasized by Leo’s parents and family, so he exceeded academically. He received his education in the Glynn County public school system
of Brunswick, GA, and was a graduating member of Risley High “Class of ‘58.” He furthered his education at Fort Valley State, Fort Valley, Georgia, receiving a degree in Physical Education.
He was employed as an educator in the Glynn County school system, working at Burroughs Mollette and Risley Middle School as a Physical Education teacher and coach. He was also employed
by the Terrill Boys and Girls Club, Brunswick Job Corps Center, and Glynn County Parks and Recreation Department.

As a coach, Leo saw the potential in students that they didn’t see in themselves. He enjoyed teaching, coaching, and mentoring the youth in his community. He also enjoyed talking to and catching up with old friends. He carried a deep love and pride for the purple and gold and was a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., and Dean of Pledgees 1960-1961.

Leo Williams was united in holy matrimony with Candace Mitchell on August 31, 2004, in Atlanta, GA.

Although Leo Williams, Jr., departed this life on January 24, 2026, his light will continue to shine brightly through the many lives he touched. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leo Williams, Sr., and Gertrude Hall Williams; and sisters, Mabel Brown and Betty Green.

He leaves to cherish his memories: his wife, Candace Mitchell Williams; daughters, Chapell (Carl) Walker, Valerie Williams, and Shanika Walker; sister, Alma Rose Blount; grandchildren, Brandon Lewis, Kyron Walker, Chelsi Lewis, Kamron Walker, Derrick Lampkin, Jr., and Keygan Walker; great-grandchildren, Brennen Lewis, Kamiyah Evans, Bella Lewis, Branson Lewis, and Alayia Lampkin; bonus granddaughter, Courtney Ptahkind. nieces, Terri Blount and Sharon Green; and a host of cousins, other relatives, and friends.