In Trenton, New Jersey, the close‑knit community is reeling from the passing of 23‑year‑old basketball mentor and former collegiate player Quayson Williams, whose radiant spirit and unwavering love for the game inspired those around him until his final days.
Known by many simply as “Coach Q,” Quayson battled cancer with a courage that surprised even his most devoted supporters. In April 2025, a fundraising campaign was launched to help cover his medical expenses and lift his spirits during treatment. Although his friends and teammates hoped for a turnaround, his condition tragically worsened, and he died after a valiant fight.
Feedback from across the city and beyond has poured in. “Losing you still doesn’t feel real,” one tribute read. “You were one of the sweetest, happiest souls – always smiling and spreading good energy wherever you went.” Peers remember Quayson as someone whose laughter could light up a room, whose “good‑vibes only” attitude made every teammate and friend feel seen.
Growing up, Quayson’s path was defined by both joy and tenacity. His days on the basketball court reflected a youthful exuberance that he carried into adulthood. He went on to play at The Citadel in South Carolina, where his stats stood out: during his senior season he appeared in 20 of the team’s first 21 games and finished his career with 851 points, placing him 51st in the program’s scoring history. Even as he faced illness, his love for basketball never wavered — helping younger athletes and reinforcing that strength isn’t just physical, it’s the courage to keep showing up.
His family, though enveloped in grief, have offered glimpses of hope and gratitude. They described Quayson’s passing as “a major heartbreak,” yet found solace in believing that “Heaven gained a bright light.” They expressed deep thanks to the community for the support and prayers, which they say provided comfort during the darkest hours.
Coaches and fellow players recalled Quayson not only for his skill on offense — his 176 career three‑pointers at The Citadel being ninth in program history, and his 516 attempts ranking eighth — but for leadership that extended far beyond the stat sheet. “He never gave up, no matter what life threw at him,” a teammate shared. “He taught us what real strength looks like.”
Now, as the Trenton community grieves, it simultaneously celebrates a life lived with purpose. Quayson’s legacy is one of laughter, warmth, mentorship and resilience — a shining example of how one individual’s light can brighten so many lives. Rest peacefully, Coach Q. Your smile, your courage, your heart — we will carry them with us.
