University of North Carolina Ashville Athletics
Memorial Service Announced; Joel Williams Memorial Scholarship Fund Established
02.18.2026 | General, Track and Field
ASHEVILLE, N.C. – UNC Asheville Athletics has announced plans to honor the life and legacy of track & field head coach Joel Williams through a public memorial service and the creation of the Joel Williams Memorial Scholarship Fund, which will support future Bulldogs track & field student-athletes.
Williams passed away on Feb. 7 following a courageous battle with leukemia. Since then, alumni, friends, and supporters have reached out to ask how they can honor his memory and continue his impact on generations of student-athletes.
In response, the department—after consultation with Williams' family, alumni, and colleagues—has established the Joel Williams Memorial Scholarship Fund. The endowed fund will provide financial support to track & field student-athletes, ensuring that Williams' passion for mentorship, education, and opportunity continues to shape lives for years to come.
Additionally, one of Asheville's home meets will be named the Joel Williams Memorial Track Classic, permanently embedding his legacy within the program he helped build.
Memorial Service Information
A memorial service celebrating Williams' life will be held:
Sunday, March 22, 20262:00–3:30 p.m.
Blue Ridge Room – Highsmith Student Union
UNC Asheville Campus
Family, friends, alumni, and members of the Bulldog community are invited to gather in remembrance, reflection, and celebration of a coach who meant so much to the university and the sport.
Continuing a Lasting Legacy
Williams deeply believed in the transformative power of sport and dedicated his career to developing student-athletes not only as competitors but also as leaders and individuals of character. The Joel Williams Memorial Scholarship Fund ensures that his commitment to education, mentorship, and opportunity will endure for future generations of Bulldogs.
Joel Williams Obituary
https://www.hayworth-miller.com/obituaries/joel-williams
