In memoriam: Jared Paul Williams, student, College of Engineering

Jared Paul Williams, known as “Red” by many of his friends and classmates, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, Dec. 24.

Williams was a junior in the College of Engineering, majoring in computer engineering and minoring in computer science. While at Virginia Tech, he also worked part-time at Panda Express.

Williams was born on Sept. 18, 2002, in Washington, D.C., and is survived by his parents, Alicia and Steven; his sister Olivia; and his paternal grandparents, Bob and Yvonne. 

His family said Williams was a young man of many passions — he loved longboarding, video gaming, and was a seasoned traveler. Through his travels, he explored the world with his family, and in recent years, he connected deeply with his Jamaican heritage and became a Jamaican citizen. 

The Williams family is deeply grateful for the outpouring of support and wants to thank the Virginia Tech community for their kindness and compassion during this difficult time.

“Jared’s passion for engineering, his curiosity, and his warm personality left a lasting impression on everyone he met at Virginia Tech,” said Williams’ father, Steven. “His contributions to the community will not be forgotten, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.”

Williams funeral service will be held at Mount Olive Baptist Church on Saturday, Jan. 11, at 10:45 a.m. in Centreville, Virginia. The service will be livestreamed for those unable to attend in person.

Members of the university community who seek support or assistance are encouraged to contact these resources:

• TimelyCare
  
• Cook Counseling Center at 540-231-6557
• Dean of Students Office at 540-231-3787. Referral to a campus cleric may be made through this office.
• Employee Assistance Program
  • Anthem at 855-223-9277
  • Aetna at 888-238-6232
  • Kaiser Permanente at 866-517-7042
  • Sentara Health Plans Vantage HMO at 800-899-8174
• Hokie Wellness at 540-231-2233 (students) or 540-231-8878 (employees)
• Housing Services at 540-231-6205
• Residential Well-being at 540-231-1139
• Equity and Accessibility at  540-231-2010
• Women's Center at Virginia Tech at 540-231-7806
  
• University Ombuds Office at 540-231-3125
• Graduate Office of the Ombudsperson at 540-231-9573