Braeden Williams, a varsity assistant coach at Kennett Middle School, has tragically passed away.
Williams was a basketball guard whose journey reflected commitment both on and off the court.
Born in Fayetteville, Arkansas, he later moved to Kennett, Missouri, with his family.
He worked at Kennett Middle School, where his background as a collegiate athlete added practical experience and mentorship value to his role.
Braeden continued his education and basketball career at Crowley’s Ridge College and competed during the 2019-20 and 2020-21 seasons.
He later joined Fisher Colleger and returned to the court for the 2023-24 season.
Wearing jersey #20 and playing the guard position, he contributed as a team-focused player who prvovided depth and effort in limited minutes.
Across his collegiate career, Williams appeared in seven games, including one start averaging 10.6 minutes per game.
He posted career averages of 2.9 points, 1.0 rebound and 0.1 assists, with a field goal percentage of 25.0 percent.
Coach Braeden Williams Passed Away Leaving Everyone Devastated
As per the sources, a varsity assistant coach Braeden Williams passed away on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, at his resident at the age of 26.
However, the cause of death has not been revealed yet.
Kennett Indian Softball took to its official Facebook handle and announced the tragic news. They wrote,
Words can’t describe the impact a coach and teacher can have on students and athletes. If you knew Braeden, you could see that he had a type of light that just shined from him. It IMPACTED his students and athletes! You gravitated towards him because of the power that held to light up a room. He showed up, for everyone! I remember after the district championship last year, he said it was one of the best games he’s ever been to, I told him I wish I felt the same way in that moment! Braeden had such a good soul and that’s rare to find! The world became a little lesser without Braeden Williams in it. But I will say this, there isn’t a person that Braeden couldn’t talk to, that was one of the great qualities about him. Kennett Softball sends prayers to the Williams family. Much love from Kennett softball and our coaching staff. You will be missed.
Kennett Indian Softball
Montrell James who studied at Crowley’s Ridge College also offered his heartfelt condolences.
Some of the worst news I’ve ever gotten. I’m so thankful for the memories, jokes, and moments we got to share on & off the court. All I’ve been doing is watching old highlights of the funniest times.
Montrell James
Thank you for always being you. Genuine, hilarious, and above all a great person.
Rest easy B..🕊️💔
Rachel Gilmore, an elementary school counselor at Mathis Elementary School wrote,
My heart hurts today. For Braeden, for his players, the coaches, the school, for the entire Kennett community. Braeden was one of the good ones. A loss like this is hard to rationalize. He was so young. I’m grateful for the time my family got to know him and for his impact on Hayden.
Rachel Gilmore
Other close ones and relatives have also offered their heartfelt condolences and sent prayers to Braeden’s family to stay strong.
Arrangements are pending with the Nelson Berna Funeral Home, 4520 N. Crossover Road, Fayetteville, AR 72764.
He will always be remebered for his unforgettable contributions as a basketball player and coach.
Rest in Heaven, Braeden Williams.
