Matt (Matthew Robert) Williams

Matt (Matthew Robert) Williams, 37, of White Hall, formerly of Jonesboro, passed away on Saturday, April 12, 2025, following a tragic automobile accident in Pine Bluff.

Matt was born on June 16, 1987, in Jonesboro to Bob and Marcia Williams. He was raised in Jonesboro, where he developed a lifelong passion for sports and education. After beginning his teaching and coaching career in Jackson, Mississippi, he went on to serve in Jonesboro and several other school districts before joining White Hall High School, where he continued his calling as a coach and teacher.

A man of faith, Matt was a Christian of the Baptist belief. He lived a life full of energy, positivity, and passion. An avid outdoorsman and athlete, Matt was active in running, swimming, biking, tennis, and weight training. He competed in numerous races and proudly qualified for the Boston Marathon—a testament to his dedication and drive. He especially loved coaching summer basketball, where he made a meaningful impact on the lives of many young athletes.

Matt was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Worth and Suzanne Gibson; paternal grandmother, Dana Williams and uncle, Steve Brown.

He is survived by his loving parents, Bob and Marcia Williams of Greenville, Mississippi; his sister, Kara Williams of Littleton, Colorado; his South African sister, Marina Enbelbrecht (Duane) Cooper of Augusta, Georgia; 2 uncles, Mark (Lisa) Gibson of Rogers, Arkansas, Phil (Russell Blake) Gibson of Atlanta, Georgia; aunt, Paula Brown of Jonesboro, Arkansas; 6 cousins: Tim Gibson, Natalie Gibson, Katherine Anne (Jake) Wilkie, Joe (Miranda) Gibson all of Rogers, Arkansas, Brady (Courtney) Brown of Little Rock, Arkansas, Ben (Lainey) Brown of Dallas, Texas and numerous nieces and friends whom he deeply loved.

The funeral service will be Monday, April 21, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. at Emerson Memorial Chapel with Dr. Bruce Tippit, David Daniel, and Dr. Willie Hurst officiating.

Visitation will be from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. prior to the service.

Burial will be private.

For lasting memorials, the family asks that consideration be given to Lifeline Christian Mission at lifeline.org