Alumnus, athlete, ambassador at-large
Monday, April 26, 2021
Jesse T. Williams Sr., the personification of the school-spirit slogan “Hawk Pride” that bonds current and future alumni to the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, died Sunday, April 25. He was 81.
A 1962 graduate of then-Maryland State College, Williams had a successful career in corporate America in an era when Fortune 500 companies had few Blacks in management. He worked for the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, rising through the ranks to become a vice president and elected officer.
Williams cherished his alma mater’s role in shaping his life. After graduation, he and his wife lived in the Midwest — Illinois, Kansas, Michigan and Ohio — before settling in Delaware when he retired.
“He was a true friend to the university,” 1963 alum Melvin Hill said, “and he was a true friend of mine. He always loved the school, and his fellow man. I’m going to miss him.”
President Heidi M. Anderson recalled “Jesse Williams was one of the first alums I met upon my arrival in September 2018. He epitomized Hawk Pride with his unwavering dedication to his alma mater.”
“In my short tenure as president,” Anderson said, “I … cherished my conversations with Jesse and his wise counsel.”
Returning to Delmarva afforded Williams an opportunity to visit his beloved UMES often. At 6-feet 8-inches, he was not difficult to spot.
“Seeing Jesse walk on campus was like seeing a mighty oak move with grace, power and strength,” said Dr. James White, president of UMES’ National Alumni Association. “His stature loomed large, and his shadow was warm and covering.”
