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B.C. Williams, Jr. (photo courtesy of Chuck Almarez)

Grimes Establishes Williams’ Memorial Book Collection at Clifton Forge Public Library

 
Clifton Forge, VA (April 17, 2018) - Clifton Forge Public Library Director Mike Barnes is pleased to announce that the library is establishing the B.C. Williams, Jr., Memorial Book Collection. The collection is made possible through a generous donation given by Dr. John Grimes.

The late B.C. Williams, Jr., who died on December 12, 2017, was a star athlete for Clifton Forge High School. Mr. Williams led the football team in two undefeated seasons during his junior and senior years. As a senior, he was named All-State full back. Recruited by several colleges, Mr. Williams signed on with West Virginia University.

Williams was a member of the Associated Press 1971 All-American Team as a third team member. He was also a United Press International First Team All-East Choice. He earned these achievements while playing at WVU under legendary head football coach Bobby Bowden.

A lifelong resident of Clifton Forge, he earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees at West Virginia University, then returned to his hometown where he worked as Director of the Jackson River Vocational Center (now the Jackson River Technical Center). He was also the Attendance Supervisor for Alleghany County Public School Systems.

Mr. Williams’ was active in his community. His civic activities included membership with Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity; Past Master with John W. Barnes Lodge #305, F. and A.M.; and, membership with the Coalition of Christians and Jews. Former affiliations included assistant member of the County Deputies Association, Fraternal Order of Police, and State Police Association; member of the National Firefighters Association; and, member of the American Kennel Club. Williams was a charter member of the Greater Alleghany Highlands Economic Development Commission. He was also an active member of St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church in Clifton Forge, and a faithful volunteer at the Clifton Forge Public Library.

Dr. Grimes established the book collection in honor of his good friend and fellow church member. The collection is intended to reflect the love of family, community, and the desire to serve that shaped Mr. Williams’ life. Dr. Grimes remembers Mr. Williams as “a very intelligent, compassionate person with diverse interests.”

Library personnel are working closely with Mr. Williams’ family members in choosing appropriate books for the collection. All book selections will be approved by his family before the library purchases them.

A book plate will be placed in each book that names the giver and reflects that it is in memory of Mr. Williams.

Recently, the library received a set of books in Mr. Williams’ memory, from his sister, Marie E. Williams, which will be a part of the Memorial Book Collection.

The B.C. Williams, Jr., Memorial Book Collection will be displayed for circulation in a designated area in the front of the library. After six months, books will be shelved in the regular stacks.

Anyone wishing to contribute to the B.C. Williams, Jr., Memorial Book Collection, may make their check payable to the Clifton Forge Public Library.

The library is located at 535 Church Street.

For information on any library programs or activities, call 863-2519.
 
 
 

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