OUTSTANDING ATHLETE

Induction Year: 1997 | Graduation Year: 1949

Born January 10, 1931 the youngest of three children to Paul and Clara Williams.

Attended Medway Elementary and Olive Branch Schools. Though he lived on a farm in Medway his entire life, being active in the 4-H club, there was time to help his father farm 300 acres. His love for all sports made him very competitive. Tom played Varsity Basketball for Olive Branch from 1947 - 1949. As a guard and Captain of the team, he would receive the "Most Valuable Player" awards in 1948 and 1949. Winning AIП County and All Ohio Honorable Mention, he would collect seven letters in four sports. Not to forget the farm life, he would receive first place at the Ohio State Fair in 4-H judging of General Livestock in 1947.

While enrolled at Miami University, Tom would play on the freshman basketball team 1950 - 1951 and be awarded the team sweater.

With the Korean War now active, Tom would join the United States Army in 1951 and be stationed at Fort Amador, Canal Zone with the 516th Transportation Company. Serving as a chauffeur to the General's wives, he received a promotion to corporal in 1952. Remembering his competitiveness in Ohio, Tom played softball and basketball for the 516th Special troops. Helping his teams win two Isthmus Army Basketball Championships and one Isthmus Army Softball Championship, he would receive many kudos for his playing and leadership abilities. A letter of recommendation dated 15 April, 1954 from Major General L.J. Whitlock would praise his “enviable record which he achieved in both softball and basketball." Upon receiving an Honorable Discharge with the rank of Tech Sgt., Tom returned to Miami University in 1954-1955.

Chosen a 5'9" sophomore guard over two 6'5" candidates by Coach Bill Rohr, Tom would go on to win acclaim for many notable achievements at Miami. Honored at a sports award dinner as Radio WBLY & Carling 1958 - 1959 Athlete of the Month in basketball for his "fine defensive play and exceptionally high scores."

Tom married Joan Botkin and would have three children Jan (Krohn), Guy, and Lynn (Lewis). They would bring him seven grandchildren.

Before his death, Tom was elected President of the Medway Cemetery Association from 1990 - 1993. He managed the "Medway Merchants" softball team, played slow pitch softball for many years, served as a 4-H livestock club advisor and as a member of the St. Mark' Lutheran Church in New Carlisle. He competed in front yard croquet tournaments, enjoyed playing cards and any competitive games.