Dr. Jay R. Williams

Dr. Jay R. Williams, age 86, passed away peacefully at the Pettigrew Rehabilitation Center on Monday, December 8, 2025. He was born on July 13, 1939, to the late Anna Iola Williams (Reigle) and Jesse Stanley Williams of York, Pennsylvania.

Jay graduated from William Penn Senior High School in York, PA in 1957. He completed his undergraduate work at Franklin and Marshall College in Lancaster, PA before going on to earn his Master's and Doctoral degrees in Sociology at Duke University. Dr. Williams then went on to teach at the University of Michigan before returning to the Durham area to be a research associate at the Research Triangle Institute (RTI International) where he completed various studies related to criminal behavior, substance abuse and law enforcement practices. As a published expert in the field of criminology, he traveled domestically and internationally to observe, study and consult with state, federal and local agencies to better understand criminal behavior, the effectiveness of law enforcement practices and make recommendations. In December 1984, Dr. Williams was awarded the North Carolina Order of the Long Leaf Pine, the state's highest civilian honor, recognizing individuals for significant service and contributions through exemplary accomplishments and dedication presented by the Governor making them honorary "ambassadors" of NC. Owing to his love of teaching, Jay found a new home at his alma mater Duke University where he taught criminology until his retirement. He grew restless in retirement, returning to the classroom to teach criminology at North Carolina State University where he remained active into his early 80’s.

Beyond teaching, Jay was happiest with the love of his life, LuSan. He enjoyed gathering with the local wine club, reading a good book or having a lively debate with friends. He truly enjoyed sharing his life experiences with everyone and had a very keen sense of humor that he shared with everyone he met.

Jay Williams is survived by his loving partner and best friend LuSan Hill of Durham. He also has two nephews, Jacques B. Williams of St. Louis, MO and Jeffrey S. Williams of Oak Ridge, NC. Jay was preceded in death by his older brother Jacques E. Williams and their parents Jesse and Anna.

No services are planned. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Salvation Army or the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina.