William Kwame Baptiste "Coach"

William Kwame Baptiste "Coach" of Goldsboro departed this earthly life Wednesday morning, March 27, 2024, at home surrounded by his loving family. He was 48 years old.

Will was born on September 28, 1975, in Brooklyn, New York to Brenda E. Youell and Willie F. Baptiste. He graduated from Jefferson Davis High School in Mobile, Alabama, and went on to enlist in the United States Air Force where he was trained in combat communications. He continued to work in technology for Time Warner Cable/Spectrum and other national communication companies. Most recently he served as Technology Coordinator and Athletic Director at Dillard Academy Charter School.

Will was a loving husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, cousin, co-worker and friend. He was a pillar in the local athletic community and will be deeply missed by family, friends, and all who knew him.

In his spare time, Will enjoyed coaching basketball, soccer, track/field, and participating in mixed martial arts. He was known for being a die-hard New Orleans Saints fan, his quirky sense of humor, his contagious smile, and his dedication to the countless young athletes he coached.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 20 years Danielle; his children, Nakia Kayla Baptiste, William Kwame Bonds, Daria Delayla Bonds, and Xavier Alexander Kwame Baptiste; granddaughter Kaylee Amara Elizabeth Adams; mother Brenda E. Youell, father Willie F. Baptiste; grandmother Julane Jefferson; brother James Yukuba Street; nephew James Zion Street, his mother and father-in-law Hilda Hicks and Elbert Branch as well as dear aunts and uncles; Laverne Youell, Calvin Youell, Malik Youell, Edward Baptiste, Malcolm Baptiste and Linda Baptiste, a host of cousins, other relatives and friends, and the students and staff at Dillard Academy Charter School.

Will's kindness, tenacity, strength, and love will forever be remembered by all who were fortunate enough to have known him. Rest in peace "Coach".

A service to celebrate his life will be held Saturday, March 30, 2024 at 2 p.m. in the chapel of Howell Funeral Home & Crematory in Goldsboro with military honors to follow.  The family will receive friends following the service. 

Services entrusted to the care of Howell Funeral Home & Crematory in Goldsboro.

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