About Rick
Rick was extraordinary, having graduated as valedictorian of the NC State College of Electrical Engineering. He went on to earn his Master’s in Computer Engineering (MSCPE), consistently earning an A in his post-secondary education. Being the humble and kind man he was, no one would have known this about him.
What makes Rick extraordinary is that he shared a deep connection to what was important in his life: his wife, Beth; his children, Zach and Ashley; his love for NC State University, and golf. Rick was dealt a short hand, but he lived it fully, with grace—never bitter, never complaining.
Rick’s Passions
Rick’s lifelong dream was to attend NC State University, so much so that it was the only school he applied to. A standout student, he graduated as valedictorian from South Mecklenburg High School in 1984 and NC State University in 1988, earning the Engineer of the Year award. Rick later attained his MSCPE from NC State University and remained a devoted member of the Wolfpack community throughout his life.
Rick’s Legacy
In 2013, Rick was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, and five years later, with stage 4 colon cancer. He faced these challenges with remarkable strength, never losing his passion for sports, education, or family. To honor his legacy, his loving family established The Big R Foundation to celebrate Rick’s love for NC State, his steadfast Wolfpack pride, and his generous heart. The Foundation helps fund the Richard Lee Williams Extraordinary Opportunity Scholarship, empowering engineering students to pursue their dreams as Rick once did.