John Williams.Photo:gofundme

John Williams

gofundme

A beloved high school basketball coach is being remembered for his bright personality after he was killed in a car crash in Turlock, California, less than an hour before he was expected to help coach a game.

In arelease posted to Facebook, the Turlock Police Department said that authorities responded to “to a three-vehicle traffic collision” at W. Christoffersen Parkway and Kilroy Avenue at 4 p.m. local time on Friday.

A 48-year-old man — identified on aGoFundMecampaign as John Williams — died of injuries he sustained in the crash, according to the police. Other occupants involved in the accident were also transported to local hospitals for treatment.

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Williams “was a beloved basketball coach for over 20 years” and “touched the lives of countless athletes and their families,” the Turlock Unified School District said in a statement, according to theJournal.

Cornfoot said his friend was a “great guy” with a big heart, according toCBS affiliate KOVR. “And that was just the personality that he had, he would be the first one there to help you out," he added.

Kelly Fetter, who organized the GoFundMe campaign for Williams’ family, said the basketball coach “was a larger than life person” as well as “a great friend, amazing coach and he would do anything for his family.”

As of publication Thursday afternoon, more than $60,000 has been raised online to support Williams’ family following his sudden death. Ameal trainhas also been started for Williams’ family.

Services will beheld Saturdayat the Turlock Memorial Park and Funeral Home, according to a post on Turlock High School’s Facebook page. Those attending have been asked to wear blue and gold “to celebrate John and his love of the [Turlock High School] Bulldogs.”

Drugs and alcohol did not appear to factor into the collision, according to the police. They are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash “or has video at the time of, or leading up to, the collision” to call (209) 664-7399.

source: people.com