Phil Williams

Dr. Harold Phillip “Phil” Williams age 58 of Summerville, Georgia passed away unexpectedly Friday, November 7, 2025.

Dr. Williams was born in Rome, Georgia on May 14, 1967, son of Harold McHugh “Cotton” Williams and Joyce Barker Williams. He was a member of the Summerville Rotary Club and the GSA, Georgia Superintendents Association. Dr. Williams loved his community and Trion Schools. He was an avid sports fan, and the ultimate Trion Bulldog, attending and supporting as many school sports and extra-curricular activities as possible. You could even catch him in the pick-up lines at the school. He enjoyed traveling with his wife, being on the lake behind the wheel of his boat and spending time with his family, especially his granddaughter, Millie. His career and accomplishments can be best summed up by what the Trion Board of Education released about him Saturday:

Dr. Williams dedicated his life to education and to the betterment of his hometown. A proud graduate of Trion High School, Class of 1985, he returned to his alma mater with a calling to serve and lead. After earning his teaching degree from the University of West Georgia in 1991, followed by advanced degrees in Administration from Jacksonville State University and Nova Southeastern University, Dr. Williams embodied lifelong learning and a deep commitment to excellence.

As Principal of Trion High School for 8 years and later as Superintendent of Trion City Schools for 16 years, Dr. Williams transformed our system through vision, perseverance, and an unwavering belief in the potential of every student. Under his leadership, Trion City Schools flourished academically, athletically, and artistically garnering numerous accolades, including National Blue Ribbon School awards and numerous statewide recognitions. The evidence of his dedication surrounds us: from the growth and modernization of our campus and facilities to the culture of pride, unity, and achievement that defines our district today.

Dr. Williams’ leadership was rooted in his love for people. He led with integrity, common sense, and compassion, inspiring those around him to always pursue excellence. His competitive spirit and high expectations for himself and others pushed our schools to new heights, while his care for students and staff made Trion City Schools a true family.

Though his passing leaves a tremendous void, his legacy of service, vision, and heart will continue to guide us. The Trion Board of Education extends our deepest condolences to Dr. Williams’ family, friends, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His life’s work has shaped not only our schools but the very fabric of our community.

Dr. Williams will forever be remembered as a Bulldog through and through - a leader whose dedication, love, and vision made Trion City Schools the exceptional system it is today.

Dr. Williams is survived by his wife, Rhonda Williams; daughter, Allie Williams(Jackson Denny); sons and daughters-in-law, Jarrod and Meghan Broome and Logan and Katya Broome; sister and brother-in-law, Connie and Terry Payne; parents, Harold “Cotton” and Joyce Williams; granddaughter, Millie Broome; nieces and nephews, Justin(Lauren) Gentry, Chase(Sarah) Ewing, Hunter Gentry, Laurie Gentry and Payton(Kaitlyn) Payne; and a special friend, Jeff “Fro” Wilson.

There are no public services scheduled for Dr. Williams at this time.

The family respectfully asks that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to the Phil Williams Scholarship Fund at the United Community Bank.

Coffman Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to be serving the family of Dr. Harold Phillip “Phil” Williams. Please visit www.coffmanfh.net to sign our online guestbook and post condolences.