Denny Douglas Williams

Denny Douglas Williams, 87, of Arden, NC passed away Monday, June 12, 2023 at the Elizabeth House.

A native of Belmont, NC, Denny was a son of the late Wylie M. and Lena Wilson Williams. He was also preceded in death by his brothers, Ted and Dean Williams.

Mr. Williams was a veteran of the U.S. Army. He attended Western Carolina University, where he obtained a Bachelor of Science and Master’s Degrees in Education. He also played football for Western and is a member of the WCU Athletic Hall of Fame. He worked as a football coach at the high school and collegiate levels for 30 years. He was a member of Biltmore United Methodist Church.

Denny is survived by his wife, Phyllis Messer Williams; children, Scott Williams (Debbie) of Wilkesboro, NC, Michael Williams (Vicki) of Asheville, Julie Johnston (Chip) of Charleston, SC, Tim Lawson of Candler, NC, and Susan Bowman of Asheville; grandchildren, Sarah Williams (Andrew), Mary Williams, Jon Williams (Heather), Ben Williams (Janelle), Carrie Williams, Shelby Johnston and Ashlee Johnston; and great-grandchildren, Luke Williams, Wren Williams, Harlowe Williams, Roman Williams and Brando Rippy.

Denny was a lifelong learner with an enduring love of knowledge. He was anchored by his faith in Christ and the love of his life, his wife Phyllis. He loved watching all levels of football and recently became an avid Braves Baseball fan. Above all he loved watching his grandchildren and great-grandchildren grow and flourish.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, July 5, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. at the Western Carolina State Veteran’s Cemetery Chapel, with the Rev. Sam McLamb officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Western Carolina University.

Groce Funeral Home on Patton Avenue is assisting the family.