Marcus T. Williams Foundation
Dear friend, I hope all is well with you and that you are as healthy in body as you are strong in spirit.
3 John 1:2 NLT
About the Foundation
Empowerment Through Wellness, Education and Compassion
The Marcus T. Williams Foundation was created to honor the life and impact of Marcus Williams to echo his core belief that health is wealth—a principle that guided his mission to uplift and empower communities through education & wellness.
Named in honor of a life rooted in service, strength, and compassion, the foundation focuses on breaking generational cycles by addressing health disparities, promoting physical wellness, and creating access to essential resources. From hosting health screenings and awareness events to supporting youth development and family-centered initiatives, we strive to create lasting impact where it's needed most.
Through collaboration, advocacy, and heart-centered service, the Marcus T. Williams Foundation stands as a reminder that when we invest in our health, we invest in our future.
Pay Registration Fee
Registration is required for all attendees. The fee includes:
- T-shirt
- Swag bag
- Snacks & Water
- Access to Kids Zone
- Free health screening
All proceeds go to the scholarship fund.
Scholarship Donations
Your generous donation can make a significant difference in the lives of a deserving Dougherty County high school student that has shown academic excellence and service to community. Every contribution counts!
All donations are tax-deductible.
In Loving Memory of Marcus
At the age of eight, Marcus was diagnosed with a rare tumor called Spindle-Cell Hemangioendothelioma (SCHE). He was referred to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, where ongoing research was being conducted for this rare condition. Surgeons successfully removed the tumor from behind Marcus' left earlobe along with nearby lymph nodes.
Following the surgery, Marcus was treated at St. Jude for ten years. There was no evidence of recurrence during that time.
During Marcus’ early childhood and adulthood remission, he did not allow this rare tumor to stop his daily activities. He was an excellent student and he loved playing sports. Football and basketball were two of his favorites. Marcus played city league and high school football at Westover High School. He continued his athletic journey at Florida State University and Valdosta State. His athleticism was exceptional. He graduated in 2008 from Albany State University with a B.S. degree in Chemistry. After receiving his degree, he was hired at Miller Coors as an Analytical Chemist. His adventurous spirit led him to Al Udeid Qatar in 2011 to work at Sallyport Global as Supervisor - AUAB. He enjoyed living abroad and traveling to international destinations. After returning to the States, he worked as a Laboratory Supervisor at Pfizer (Thermal Care Division) in Albany, Ga. He also worked as a Quality Control Chemist at Stepan Company in Columbus, Ga.
Before becoming ill, in 2023, he was employed as Operations Manager at Helena Industries in Cordele, Ga.
Because of his love for the youth, he mentored the Boys to Men Youth Ministry. Deacon Williams co-founded Hard Work U (University), where he mentored high school and college students, empowering them to pursue their dreams and instilling in them the values of hard work and perseverance. Marcus was also a passionate Bible study teacher. He loved the Lord and his faith was unwavering. Marcus was passionate in his beliefs, resolute in his convictions, and unfaltering in the face of challenges. He fought the good fight of faith, embodying strength and determination in all aspects of his life. Marcus was truly a strong soldier, standing firm in his principles and inspiring those around him with his unwavering spirit and dedication.
On April 7, 2023, more than three decades after his first cancer battle, Marcus visited the doctor complaining of shortness of breath and upper respiratory congestion. An X-ray revealed a hydropneumothorax in his left lung. He was admitted to the hospital, and fluid was drained and sent for analysis. When the local pathologist was unable to reach a definitive diagnosis, Marcus was referred to a cardiovascular surgeon at Emory Hospital. At Emory, Marcus underwent a video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) with biopsy. The final diagnosis: Epithelioid Hemangioendothelioma (EHE), a rare vascular cancer. Marcus began chemotherapy treatment at Emory.
By December 2023, after completing six rounds of chemotherapy, his CT scan looked promising. In January 2024, he was told he was in remission and would begin maintenance therapy. In April 2024, a follow-up CT scan revealed the cancer had returned. His oncologist recommended a stronger more aggressive chemotherapy drug which brought debilitating side effects. He was prescribed oral chemotherapy pills, but his body could not tolerate them. Still, Marcus held onto hope. He stayed in the fight. In May 2024, he contacted the Mayo Clinic, seeking better options and renewed possibilities. After his evaluation, doctors at Mayo Clinic recommended radiation therapy followed by chemotherapy. In August, Marcus underwent radiation treatment. In September, he began a new chemotherapy drug. Following treatment, the effects were harsh. We returned home with Marcus needing increased oxygen support for persistent cough and shortness of breath.
On the morning of September 21, 2024, at 8:00 AM, Marcus softly said he was tired and needed to sleep. He agreed to go to the hospital. On September 23, 2024, Marcus transitioned to his eternal resting place. He fought a good fight. He finished his course. He kept the faith. Marcus is with The Lord. He didn't just pass away, he passed on: From labor to reward. Well done, good and faithful servant.
To honor the life and legacy of Marcus T. Williams, his family and friends established the Marcus T. Williams Scholarship Foundation. This foundation provides scholarships to deserving seniors from Dougherty County high schools, supporting their pursuit of higher education and future success.
