Beloved former principal dies

The American flag at Chico High School is flying at half-mast since the unexpected death of former Principal Roger Williams (pictured) on Monday (Oct. 11) from a massive stroke at age 65. Williams—who was with his wife, Nancy, at their second home in Taos, N.M., at the time—was airlifted to a Colorado hospital, but he could not be saved, according to a report in the Chico Enterprise-Record.

Williams—who was an avid golfer and fly fisherman—also leaves behind two daughters, Ashley and Jenny. The much-loved administrator served as Chico High principal from 1981 until he retired in 2003.

“The loss is not only devastating to Chico High School, but to the community of Chico as well,” offered Chico High receptionist Mary Sours.

Sours said the high school’s flag will fly at half-mast until after a memorial service for Williams on Monday, Oct. 18, at 3:30 p.m., at the Chico Elks Lodge, 1705 Manzanita Ave.