Tributes poured in yesterday for coach Leon Williams, a stalwart of the Volleyball fraternity of T&T a beloved member at Holy Name Convent, Port-of-Spain.
Williams trained and mentored many of this country's national athletes including Kelly Anne Billingy and the late Ayana Dyette, among others.
Williams who was at Holy Name for numerous years was more than just a coach and a longstanding PE teacher.
He was a mentor and a father figure to several generation girls at the school who grew into remarkable young women.
Former chairman of Port-of-Spain and Environs Sports Council Kelvin Nancoo shared fond memories of Williams.
Nancoo described his former friend as an "absolutely wonderful person" who was never too busy to lend an ear to others and to share positivity.
"He was always on time for meetings. He was always one that any one could depend on to do anything you requested him to do and he was always a person who would offer himself up to any job that was require to assist people, the Port-of-Spain and Environs Zone and to ensure the success of any venture," Nancoo said.
He added that Williams indeed left big shoes to be filled.
As Williams' funeral took place at Allen's Funeral Home in Arima staff and students at Holy Name Convent also paid their respects to this kind human being whose loss will be felt for quite some time.
Student Meagan Roberts of Form Five Central at Holy Name Convent said she will always remember the "fun-loving, always smiling Coach" on the school's volleyball court.
"Coach was a beautiful soul. He was the type of teacher who exalted brilliance and personality in the classroom. No student would be left behind as he ensured his lessons were both interactive and fruitful.
"Even in his sickly state he always wore his signature smile and showed absolute positivity through the worst of days. Coach would always be remembered as a positive influence and a shining light to those he encountered. You will always be remembered and loved Coachie," Roberts said.
Kalifa Titus also of Form Five Central described Williams as an "honourable man, one of integrity and a man of devotion."
"He was someone who brought light and joy to everyone around him regardless of if you knew him or not, he made you feel welcomed. He was the one who you could turn to for anything may it be advise, help with a situation or just a listening ear. Once coach saw potential in you he would go out of his way make sure you fulfilled that potential to the best of your ability.
"Having experienced Coach as a teacher and as my volleyball coach I can whole heartily say that he was the best at what he did and he will be greatly missed by many. We at Holy Name Convent are truly grateful and appreciative for the time that God has graced us with Coach Williams. Forever in our hearts Coach," Titus added.
Williams passed away on November 1.