Annual celebration honors slain teen’s community impact

This year marks 35 years since Doug Williams’ passing, and the 32nd year of the Doug Williams Memorial Easter Weekend celebration, a heartfelt tribute to a beloved Fair Park High School basketball captain whose life was cut tragically short as a teen.

“He was the best little brother you could have,” said Cheryl Williams, Doug’s sister. “He always believed in teamwork, bringing people together. That’s why we do this, to carry that same spirit forward.”

What began in 1993 as a family fun day in the park has grown into a weekend-long celebration filled with basketball, games, music, food, and scholarship opportunities, all aimed at inspiring and supporting local youth.

Over the years, the event has also expanded to include scholarships for local high school students. Last year, three students from Huntington High School — all attending Southern University — received financial support totaling $3,000. This year, organizers plan to award two scholarships worth $2,000 each.

“Doug’s legacy is about more than a memory,” said Cheryl. “It’s about uplifting our youth and keeping the spirit of community alive.”