Recent Passing of Emeritus Williams

Author: Office of Alumni Engagement

Published Date: 5/17/2023

Categories: Alumni Faculty and Staff


2023 Emeritus Williams

Dr. Thomas R. Williams 

June 29, 1938 - April 27, 2023

Professor emeritus of philosophy (1966-2000)

Dr. Thomas R. Williams, professor emeritus of philosophy, passed away unexpectedly at his home on April 27, 2023. Dr. Williams spent most of his professional career at Carroll serving from 1966-2000. He was also faculty advisor to the Delta Rho Upsilon fraternity, where he was affectionately given the nickname “Pa.” Dr. Williams was well-known pillar on the Carroll campus, not only as a professor of philosophy, but also as chairman of the department, acting chairman of the foreign language department and director of the Common Course. Common Course was a two-course sequence taken during January term that helped students examine essential questions and dilemmas common to the human experience. A central part of the liberal arts education during the 80s into the 90s, Common Course was designed for students to think about new problems that may not have easy answers helping students think about radically different ideas and promote discussion on topics and issues that are difficult. Tom was thoughtful but sharp-witted and was able to see the humor in every situation. He collected and smoked pipes, enjoyed traveling, sailing, listening to music, and bird watching. Dr. Williams once was asked what advice he would provide to young people embarking on their time at Carroll and he responded, “Learn as much as you can, about as many different things you can, because you don’t know what you’ll need to know.” He died in Garden, Michigan at the age 84.
 


Dr. Williams shaped lives of many Carroll students. The Carroll community extends condolences to his family, friends, and alumni who loved him and were impacted by him.
 
Panoramic View of campus