Former Troy Athletic Director passes away

Troy Athletics lost a legend two weeks ago after former athletic director Johnny Williams died following his battle with Leukemia on Feb. 4.

“Johnny Williams was the most positive person I have ever met, and his ‘can-do’ attitude was contagious,” said Troy University chancellor Jack Hawkins in a press release. “We express our condolences to his wife, Robin, and to his entire family.

“All remain very special to Troy University.”

Williams served as the Athletic Director from 1994 to 2004. During that time, Troy Athletics earned 28 conference titles across all sports. He was influential in the move from NCAA Division II to Division I, including reaching FBS competition for football. Troy also joined the Sun Belt Conference during his tenure, where the team still plays today.

Williams also had major impacts on the facilities over his 10 years. He was a key factor in upgrades to Veterans Memorial Stadium, Riddle-Pace Field, along with construction on the Troy Softball Complex and Track & Field/Soccer Complex.

Following Williams’ departure from Troy, he was inducted into the Troy University Sports Hall of Fame in 2016. Williams also served as the executive director of the Camellia Bowl, now known as the IS4S Salute to Veterans Bowl, until his passing.

Williams’ funeral service took place at Cross Pointe Church in Tuscaloosa, Ala. on Feb. 10. Although he is no longer with us, his impact remains to be in effect with each milestone of Troy University Athletics.