Bell graduate dies in Michigan accident

With heavy hearts the Bell High School Class of 2003 mourn the passing of classmate R.J. Williams.
R.J. died on June 3, 2011, in Leslie, Michigan, in a car accident while picking up grain for the horse farm where he worked. R.J. was establishing himself as a premier harness racer and won the last race of his brilliant career.
Known for his warm smile, excellent manners, and witty sense of humor, R.J. was loved by all who knew him.
Survivors include his parents, Bobbie and Amelia Williams of Bell, his sister Stacia and her three children, Raquel, Kaleb, and Aliana who live in Gainesville.
R.J. had horse racing in his blood descending from generations of horse racers. Those who were aware of his success laud his natural charm and professional demeanor.
Classmates and teachers in Bell remember what an intelligent and delightful personality R.J. had. The skills he learned in Gilchrist County brought him great success in his chosen profession. More importantly, the lives he touched will be forever enriched by knowing such a fine young man.
Earlier this week, former Bell High School teacher Dan Taylor remembered R.J. as a handsome, well -groomed young man, with an infectious smile, who should have been cast on “Little Rascals.”
“He was a fun, delightful person that made any situation brighter,” Taylor said. “Once anyone met R.J., it was clear that he was someone special who you just had to like.”
Taylor said he would frequently tease students at Bell High School and one of his old standby jokes was asking the question, “Gotta date this weekend?” When the student replied, “No,” Taylor would then say, “I didn’t think so.”
One day, Taylor asked R.J. the question and his response was quite different; R.J. said, “Sure do, with Mrs. Taylor.” Taylor said that R.J. was beaming as he said it, which made the joke all the more funny.
“He always knew just what to say,” Taylor said. “And he will be missed.”
The overwhelming grief of such a tremendous loss has devastated R.J.’s family and brought unbearable emotional and financial hardship.
In the spirit of compassion that our community is known for, a relief fund has been established at Capital City Bank to assist the family.
For more information, please contact Debbie Hurst at Capital City Bank in Bell, 463-6640.