Alumni Center Namesake Clayton Williams ’54 Dies
The Texas oilman and generous supporter of Texas A&M passed away in Midland on Feb. 14.
Clayton W. Williams, Jr. ’54
Clayton W. Williams, Jr. ’54, for whom the Texas A&M Alumni Center is named, passed away last Friday Feb. 14 at the age of 88.
The Texas oilman and generous supporter of Texas A&M provided millions to the university through The Association of Former Students, 12th Man Foundation and Texas A&M Foundation, including the lead gift in 1985 toward the construction of the Alumni Center.
Porter S. Garner III ’79, president and CEO of The Association, described Williams as a loyal and enthusiastic Aggie.
“Claytie was a great Aggie and a loyal friend. I will always remember his genuine emotion for Texas A&M and his fellow Aggies,” Garner said. “He was one of a kind and always wanted the best for Texas A&M. I was continually inspired by his support and dedication to The Association of Former Students and to me personally.”
Texas A&M and The Association presented Williams with the Distinguished Alumnus Award, the highest honor bestowed upon a Texas A&M former student in 1981. The Association also presented him a Core Values Coin, a small, rare gift to recognize Aggies who live and reflect the core values of Texas A&M.
In sharing news of Williams’ passing with The Association, his nephew Clay Pollard ’81 said, “Claytie loved A&M and Aggies with a deep passion, and they loved him back.”
Read more about his life and his impact on Texas A&M.
