MOBILE, Ala. | Long time South Alabama athletic administrator
Hal Williams passed away at a New Orleans hospital on Tuesday night with his family by his side.
"Words cannot express what Hal meant to the university and his colleagues," South Alabama athletic director
Joel Erdmann, Ph.D. said. "His loyal service was complimented by his sincere concern for others. He touched the lives of thousands of people whether it was student-athletes, staff, or fans. He will be remembered forever not only for what he did but for who he was."
Always fun-loving and passionate about the Jags, Williams served in a variety of roles at South Alabama, working 30-plus years and finishing his career as the Associate Athletic Director. A 1976 graduate of South Alabama, Williams returned to his alma mater in 1988 to serve as head golf coach and NCAA Compliance Officer. The Jaguar men's team won three Sun Belt titles under his direction. In 1996, Williams was named Assistant Athletic Director and relinquished the duties of golf coach. He was promoted to Associate Director of Athletics in 2005.
Following a prep career at Mobile's Murphy High, Williams attended The Citadel on a football scholarship before transferring to USA following a career-ending injury. At USA, he served as a student assistant coach/trainer under former coaches Jimmy Taylor and Cliff Ellis.
After graduating from South Alabama, Williams accepted the challenge of building the first women's basketball program at Cumberland Junior College in Lebanon, Tenn. In 1979, he assumed the role of Head Men's Basketball Coach and Director of Athletics, where he served until 1982. During his tenure at Cumberland, Williams' teams compiled a 115-40 record, claiming two Tennessee State Junior College Athletic Association State Championships.
While at Cumberland, Williams also earned his master's degree in secondary school administration from Middle Tennessee State University.
In 1983, Williams returned to Mobile and served as the head boys' basketball and head golf coach at McGill-Toolen Catholic High School until 1988. His basketball teams posted an 85-52 mark over the five years, while his golf teams captured three state championships.
Williams is survived by his wife, Kathryn and their four sons Kevin, Michael, John, and Tyler. Arrangements will be forthcoming and will be announced once they become available.
