The Iowa Valley community is grieving after the passing of sophomore football player Grady Williams. The news was announced by the Iowa High School official, Superintendent Curt Rheingans.

Williams, a student-athlete in Marengo, passed away on May 31. In the statement shared on the district's official Facebook page, Rheingans spoke about the impact of the loss on the school community.

“It is with profound sadness that I share the news of the passing of Iowa Valley sophomore Grady Williams,” Rheingans said. “Our administration, staff, students, and community are deeply saddened by this loss."

The superintendent also extended condolences to Williams' family and those who knew him. He reflected on how deeply the loss has affected the community.

"There are simply no words that can adequately express the grief, heartbreak, and sense of loss we feel during a time like this,” added Rheingans, reported by Dana Becker of High School on SI.

The district has also encouraged those affected by the loss to reach out to counselors, teachers, coaches, family members, pastors, or other trusted adults for support. Rheingans stressed that students do not have to go through the grieving process on their own.

Remembering Grady Williams' Time With Iowa Valley Athletics

While Williams was best known around the school as a member of the football team, he was also active in track and field.

On the football field, Williams played both wide receiver and defensive back for the Iowa Valley Tigers. During the 2025 season, he recorded four carries for 30 yards on offense and a solo tackle on defense.

He was part of the team that finished 10-1 and reached the Iowa High School Athletic Association Eight-Player State Football quarterfinals.

Williams also joined the Tigers' track and field team in the spring. He raced in the 100-, 200-, and 400-meter sprints. Plus, he was on several relay teams like the 4x100, 4x200, 4x400, and even the sprint and distance medleys.

Williams was born on December 27, 2009, in Waterloo, Iowa, to Andrew Holtmeyer and Annie Williams. Outside of sports, he enjoyed bass fishing, deer hunting, and spending time with family and friends.

According to his obituary, visitation is scheduled for Friday from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Iowa Valley High School Gymnasium. Funeral services will then be held at the same venue on Saturday, June 6, at 10 a.m., with burial to follow at Marengo Cemetery.

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Written by

Rudra Dubey

Edited by

Aadesh Dhote