McCrae Williams, beloved son of Chris and Dianne Williams and brother of Chase Williams of Weston, tragically passed away on September 12, 2017, at the age of 19. From an early age, McCrae showed incredible compassion for animals, a curiosity for how things worked and depicted the world he loved in art, photography and video. After living overseas from the ages of 2 to 6 years old, McCrae nurtured his family’s love for adventure and travel and wanted to see the world. His family treasured their travels and reached nearly all the continents, which was the family’s ultimate goal. He chronicled these trips with incredible photos and videos, even earned a World Wildlife Federation Award for 2 of his photos in the age 10 – 14 category. In 5th grade, he was spotted by the Casting Director for Adam Sandler’s movie Grown Ups and served as the double for Adam’s son “Keithie” in the movie. While McCrae had no intention of becoming a movie star, his love of adventure and his interest in new experiences fulfilled a wish and earned him his nickname “Hollywood” in 5th grade.
Sitting at a movie set was passionately replaced by his commitment and determination to play NCAA Division 1 Lacrosse. He earned an early spot as a 6th grader for the Littlenecks Club Team, part of the Top Gun Fighting Clams organization. His team, made up of 7th and 8th grade players, loved the “little guy” in the net. His Defensemen who had at least 12- 18 inches in height over him soon learned that size didn’t matter. His passion for the game and his determination to excel loomed large on the field. He continued to play at a high level of both Club and High School Lacrosse and reached his goal with a commitment to play at Lafayette College as a Division 1 Goalie in his sophomore year at his beloved high school, the Noble & Greenough School. As Captain of his team there, he brought the team to their best record in over a decade. He was awarded the Arnold Lacrosse Prize, given to the player whose Skills, Passion and Dedication best exemplified the love of the game. All his coaches and Nobles teammates know him as a fierce competitor, filled with courage, consumed with perseverance and a true leader who lifted his teammates’ love of the game to the next level. Beyond playing, McCrae and his brother Chase spearheaded and founded “Stick to Your Goals” which collects and donates used lacrosse equipment and uniforms to those who can’t afford the gear. After 9 years of collecting and donation placements, McCrae transferred his community service project over this past summer to another family in the Weston community who will keep the program alive. Off the field, he was a strong student, meticulous about his work, and respectful. He had a smile and an infectious spirit that transcended all. The depth of his eyes spoke volumes. He was compassionate and had an unbelievable ability to connect with people of all ages. His family was the most important thing in his life. He treasured his parents and his brother Chase and they were his ultimate team. McCrae truly had it all. McCrae’s organs have been donated to a handful of incredibly lucky recipients who now have a chance to live new lives. As a Goalie, saving now takes on new meaning. And this is what he would have wanted.
McCrae is survived by his Grandmother, Antoinette Nesto of Milton and Roberta and Bruce Williams of Greenville, SC. Uncles and Aunts as follows:
Dr Richard Nesto and Kathy Bickimer of Weston, William Nesto and Fran Di Savino of Milton, Dr Michael Filosa and Anne Marie Filosa of Medfield, Brian and Kathy Williams of Oxford and Michael and Dana Williams of Holliston as well as nine cousins.
Funeral arrangements are as follows: Visiting hours will be held on Saturday Sept 16th from 3-8pm at George F. Doherty & Sons Funeral Home, 477 Washington St., (Rt.16) WELLESLEY. The service will be held Sunday at 1pm at First Parish Church of Weston, 349 Boston Post Rd., Weston, followed by a reception at Weston Golf Club, 275 Meadowbrook Rd., Weston. Interment will be private.
We are in the process of establishing the McCrae James Williams Foundation in his memory. In lieu of flowers, a contribution can be mailed to PO Box 291, Weston, MA 02493 and will be appropriated to a cause in keeping with his character. Alternatively, you can make a donation to a charity of your choice in McCrae’s memory.