Friends find valuable lesson in death of Shaw University student

Friends say Williams, 26, was studying at Shaw to provide his five-year-old daughter, Melanie, with a better life.

“No baby should ever have to grow up without her father,” said Shaw University President, Tashni Dubroy.

Police say that on Wednesday afternoon, Williams crashed his motorcycle on Carthage Circle in Raleigh. He was rushed to the hospital, but did not survive.

He was a third year student at Shaw, and played in the band.

“He was loved by everyone,” said Dubroy. “Why Bryant, God?”

Friends say Williams was a motivator in their lives.

“Keep going, stay strong, always with a smile on his face,” said friend, Danielle Whiskey. “Mama, you raised a wonderful man and he will be deeply missed.”

More than 100 people attended the vigil for Williams on Thursday afternoon at the Chapel on campus.

“I look out here and see how many lives he touched,” said friend, Andre Haden.

Williams’ death came as a shock to everyone. Haden says he believes there is a lesson in their loss.

“Laugh, have a good time. Life is too short,” said Haden. Dubroy shared the same message with Williams’ fellow students.

“Dream big and passionately, pursue your dream and live like there is no tomorrow,” she said.

Williams’ mother, Rosaline Russell said that she appreciates the support from Shaw University and that the death of her son still does not seem real.

Though he will not be able to complete his studies at the University, Dubroy said that Williams will be given a diploma from the school.