Darrent Williams Appreciation thread! [Archive] - Page 3

BRONCOCOSTARICA

01-02-2007, 03:39 PM

Mis mas sinceras condolencias a la familia de Darrent Williams, soy un fanatico de los Broncos que los sigue desde Costa Rica y ayer entre en chock cuando me enteré de esta terrible noticia.

Para mi Darrent siempre fue un ejemplo de trabajo, compañerismo y alegria dentro del campo de juego a pesar de su corta edad y su estancia de 2 campañas en los Broncos.

Desde este punto de la tierra me uno en oración para que la familia de Darrent logre superar este terrible trance y para que Dios Todopoderoso reciba en su seno el alma de Darrent, el amigo, el hijo, el jugador.

My deepest condolences to the Darrent Williams family, I'm a Bronco's fan who follows them from Costa Rica and yesterday I was in chock when I found out this terrible news.

Darrent was a work example, comradeship and joy within the field in spite of its short age and its stay of 2 campaigns on the Broncos family.

From this point of the planet, I pray to Lord so that the family of Darrent manages to surpass this terrible critical moment and so that All-powerful God receives in its sine the soul of Darrent, the friend, the son, the player.

Soler

01-02-2007, 04:07 PM

I cannot begin to express how devastated and truly affected I am by young Darrent Williams loss. He was such a talented, gifted young man with so much potential. I mourn for him, his family and the whole broncos nation. I cannot begin to explain the influence his day in and out performance has influenced me and the team. He had a passion for life and sports and will never be forgotten. He was a person who was loved by me and I love what he's done for this sport. He proved that you don't have to be huge in stature to have a huge influence on the field. He was such a humble, good person and there will never be another like him. It's easy to say that he is in a better place right now but I personally am going to be selfish enough to say that I wish he was still here. May you rest in peace Darrent Williams, you will be extremely missed.

im planning on either airbrushing or drawing a memorial picture for darrent with the hope that someone will see it and have me do a memorial mural

biglenny

01-02-2007, 04:52 PM

In my life I have picked my self up and brushed my self off more times then I can count, I always do I always get strength from somewhere and manage to get through what ever it is I am dealing with.

I never realy herd what kind of a guy Darrent was but had a real good feeling about him I was ussually jumpin off my seat when he did well and bit my tounge when he did not. I had real high hopes for him he just seemed like he was really something special, not only in football but in life.

Hearing what I have herd of Darrents personal life today, what a good guy he truely is has given me a young man to look up to :salute:

I have been walking around for the last two days with an awful empty feeling in my heart but I know I and we all must press on and the next time you are given the oprotunity to help someone in need Jump on it and if we keep that spirit of helping others alive then maybe we as Broncos nation can presurve what Darrent Williams was all about. :salute:

Broncoid

01-02-2007, 06:02 PM

I've never been the kind of sports fan who has favorite players but the very first time I saw Darrent play (in the 2005 preseason game against Indy) I decided he was my favorite Bronco. He just seemed to be having way more fun than anyone else. I loved how he wasn't intimidated by anyone despite of being a 5'8" rookie--he was such a gamer.

I just can't comprehend how he could lose his life in such senseless way...and I'm deeply ashamed that something like this could happen in my hometown. I can't imagine what Darrent's family is going through right now. I hope it gives them comfort to know how many people who never even met Darrent are devastated by what has happened.

RunByDesign

01-02-2007, 06:26 PM

I had always wondered if a man of such small stature could represent the Jersey #27 with the might that I thought it should have required.

Sadly, it is now apparent to me, that in his life and now after his death, that Darrent was a Giant of a Man, had a Heart of Gold and has truly done a fine service to the Jersey #27, by choosing the right in his life, by wearing his passion for life on his sleeve, by invigorating people around him with his infectious smile and positive attitude.

Coming to have an understanding of someones persona over the internet and over the airwaves is usually an impossibility, save actually having regular encounters with that person. Judging by the firsthand accounts of people that saw and dealt with Darrent on a daily basis, I can easily establish these percieved realities as fact.

Sometimes the obviousness of certain realities in life shine through, no matter how far away they actually and physically are. Realities often project themselves through media - things like watching Chuck Liddell and saying afterward that he is a great fighter or...watching Britney Spears go around and make all the wrong decisions for herself and saying to yourself: gee, that girl is lost, right now. Irrelevant semantics, but...obvious.

Or maybe, just possibly - watching a young, bright football player, with a special talent for not only football, but for life, be gunned down in the prime of his life and watch the reaction from all of the people closest to him and from all the people around the world and how it caught them off guard and blew them away - one can say - I can say, we lost a truly bright and valued young man. Not just for his football talent, but - for - who - he - was.

He has done a fine service to the #27, IMHO.

BroncoForLife27

01-02-2007, 07:42 PM

I'm always gonna miss #27, it's a shame he could only be a Bronco for so little time. He is my inspiration for next year in high school football. I will proudly wear the #27 jersey for my team.

bigrick13

01-02-2007, 08:22 PM

that is a good idea i would to but im a qb i dont think my coach will let me i would love to though he was a great player i mean im still in shock i was just watching him play the other day!

NOR*CAL BRONCO

01-02-2007, 09:00 PM

I have been a Denver Bronco fan for 20+ years and I would like to thank you Darrent. For sharing your talent and amazing heart with us Bronco fans! Your stay with us was short but will never be forgotten .Thanks agian and R.I.P :salute:

Sonic Raider

01-02-2007, 09:52 PM

On behalf of the Raider Nation, I came here to pay my respects & to send my unconditional condolences to the Denver Broncos for Darrent Williams. Even though we Raiders fans hate Denver as they are our arch-rivals, in the end, the players on both teams are human beings doing what is asked by their respective fans & what they're told to do by their respective coaches. Darrent Williams was one of the up-and-coming defensive backs in the NFL. There is no way, in any circumstances, that we wish what happened to Darrent Williams on New Year's Day, happen to ANYBODY in the league, and that includes anybody on the Denver Broncos.

To those responsible for the shooting, one day all of this will come back to you & you will be held accountable for your actions.

R.I.P. Darrent Williams (September 27, 1982 – January 1, 2007)

http://www.denverbroncos.com/game_day_images/dwilliams.jpg

phatbronco

01-03-2007, 12:01 AM

It took me 2 days to get the strength to get on the internet. I knew this story would be everywhere and I did not now how I would handle it. I remember when we drafted D. Williams and my excitement about him. I feel like I have lost a close friend. But paying my respects D. Williams I luved your passion and respect for the game. Their are not enough football players like you. You will be missed.

RIP: THE GOOD ALWAYS DIE YOUNG.

Chief Fan

01-03-2007, 12:14 AM

As you can probably tell by my profile name, I am a Chiefs fan. I normally wouldn't be on here because I don't talk smack but because of this terrible tragedy, I thought I would make the exception and post on another team's board.
I can't claim to have known Darrent or speak to how great of a person he was. I only know that he was a fantastic player and he had a great future ahead of him. Everything that I have heard about Darrent, as a person, since his death says that he was as great a young man as he was a football player. When I read the headline on NFL.com, all I could say was 'oh, no' and my eyes welled up. His death is truly senseless.
My deepest heartfelt condolences go out to Darrent's family, the Broncos organization and all of you Broncos fans.
I hope they catch the people who caused this horrific incident and punish them to the fullest extent that is allowed in Colorado.
May you rest in peace, Darrent Williams.

troze

01-03-2007, 12:57 AM

I am new to this forum and posted this before, but not under this thread. Anyways, I wanted to share this picture with everyone.

http://www.rozean.com/dwilliams27.jpg

BroncoRD

01-03-2007, 01:59 AM

Mark Kiszla of the Denver Post says it best: "It was a Bad Night to Be a Bronco." The Seattle Times wrote an article entitled "This NFL Postseason, Survival has a New Meaning." Both of these have loomed to be true. As a Broncos fan of many years, I've watched and enjoyed two seasons cheering on Darrent Williams throughout the good and the bad. Like any player, he's destined to go through both. However, the sad new year has brought this fan to reflect upon the the positive, because a stand-out guy like Mr. Williams is one that does not come often, and therefore he will be missed and not forgotten by the organization or the fans. I'd like to send my condolences to the family and all that mourn the death of this star we reflect upon with the number twenty-seven. The Broncos will rise back in full form next season, and reflect their success as players and individuals from the traits and skills acquired from Darrent Williams. Rest in Peace! :salute:

Broncos United

01-03-2007, 02:18 AM

I found this past interview Darrent Williams did before being drafted by the broncos on nfl.com. I'm a huge broncos fan and been one since I was 8 years old and my heart sank after hearing the news. Deepest condolences to his family.

Full name and position: Darrent DeMarcus Williams, cornerback
Date and location of birth: Sept. 27, 1982, Fort Worth, Texas
College and major: Oklahoma State University, education
1. What is the one thing you will miss the most about college?

Williams: I think I'll miss being around the fans and my teammates.

2. What is your favorite night-before-the-game meal?

Williams: I'd say lasagna and fried chicken. Sometimes we got grilled chicken and pasta, but I prefer the lasagna and fried chicken.

3. Who is the toughest player you faced in college?

Williams: Roy Williams, wide receiver now with the Lions.

4. What other position do you wish you could play?

Williams: Wide receiver. I think I have the skills to play -- hands, speed, agility, everything a wide receiver needs.

5. Who were your idols as a child?

Williams: Deion Sanders and Michael Irvin.

6. Whose throwback jersey do you most want (or already have) in your closet?

Williams: I want Walter Payton's. The ol' No. 34. I always admired him when I saw old films. Barry Sanders' Lions jersey is another one.

7. What is your favorite thing to do in your spare time?

Williams: I like to go bowling and play video games on my PlayStation 2. My bowling high score is 228.

8. Finish this sentence: The first thing I will buy after signing an NFL contract will be ...

Williams: A car (laughs). What kind of car depends on where I get drafted. Probably a BMW 745.

9. Name the most important thing you learned in college.

Williams: Communication. Communicating with coaches, teammates, everyone.

10. Pick one: Fame or fortune.

Williams: Fortune.

11. Do you have any superstitions?

Williams: Not really.

12. Let's say you got to host NFL Total Access for one day. Who would your guests be?

Williams: I'd have Deion Sanders, Terrell Owens and Champ Bailey.

13. Which NFL stadium are you most looking forward to playing in?

Williams: I'm looking forward to playing in Lambeau Field. I've heard so much about it. I want to be a part of that cold weather and historic feel.

14. Name a question that you think would stump a fellow 2005 draft prospect.

Williams: How many rounds did the first-ever NFL draft have?

15. From Bryant McFadden's Pop Quiz: Do you think you can compete with McFadden in Madden NFL 2005?

Williams: Of course! I'm pretty good myself. Those FSU guys' PlayStation skills aren't up to par (laughs).

16. It's 100 years from now. How are people going to remember you?

Williams: As one of the smartest cornerbacks and one of the guys with the biggest hearts. As a guy who made plays bigger than what he physically measures up to all the time.

Darrent Williams rest in peace, you will be greatly missed and you are indeed one of the classiest players to ever put on a broncos jersey. Also thank you for bringing joy and lifting the spirits of the thousands of broncos fans across the country every Sunday and for being a reason that I'm proud to be a Denver Broncos fan.:salute:

BroncoForLife27

01-03-2007, 03:23 AM

Ok, I am a brand new member, I'm 16 years old, and I thought I was the biggest Bronco fan in the world. But now, seeing all of you, I realize that I have a long way to go before I can be as big a fan as some of you. Darrent's death has brought me to a new level of loyalty to the Broncos, it taught me to appreciate every player on the team, in the NFL, because they can be taken away in an instant. I am prouder now, more than ever, to be a Broncos fan and it brings a tear to my eye to see all of you show your sympathy to D Will and your compassion towards the Broncos. As I grow older, I hope I can become as good of a fan as some of you. I will always remember Darrent for the little guy who played big and was never intimidated by anyone. Rest in peace #27.

DenverBuckeye

01-03-2007, 06:04 AM

I was in shock and still in shock over the loss of Darrent Williams. Like BroncoForLife27 posted "I will always remember him for the little guy who played with an even bigger heart and he played big". He ignored what people said about him and worked his way up to the startying position. Darrent was a great player for us, but an even greater man himself. Shanahan said he always had a smile on his face and was always an upbeat person. I can't believe that this happened and I probably never will be able to, because it wasn't a heartattack or something, he was shot. He still should be alive, but God took home a really great guy the other day.

My condolences go out to the entire Williams family.
:sad: :salute:

49ers_fan

01-03-2007, 06:09 AM

I was very shocked when I heard the news. :O And I am very sorry this has happened.

I wish all the best to the family, friends and all the fans of the Denver Broncos.

mindstorm

01-03-2007, 08:04 AM

New member here to the forum; I wanted to share some shots of Darrent Williams that I found in my pics from Sunday's game.

http://beta.zooomr.com/photos/mindstorm/

Pandapeep

01-03-2007, 08:46 AM

I was reading an article on Darrent today and saw this blurb on NFL.com that just shows how good a guy he was:

Sidney Roll of Colorado Springs brought up her two grandchildren, Manhattan Trull, 4, and Gage Trull, 3, to pay final respects to Williams, who was Manhattan's favorite player.

"She saw him at a preseason game (against Houston) and wanted to give him a hug," Roll said. "I told her these guys don't have time to hug you. He waved her over (in the parking lot after the game) and gave her a hug. She even named her fish "Bling" after him, because he was wearing jewelry."

MouthOfSouth

01-03-2007, 08:55 AM

I am a fan of the Indy Colts and N.O. Saints (live in Louisiana) and am here to offer my condolences for the senseless death of your fine player, Darrent Williams.

I pulled out my DVD of the Colts/Denver game to bring me up to date on Williams. He seemed such a fine young man and an up and coming player. What a waste!

Hang in there, Bronco fans. We all feel for you, and our thoughts and prayers are with you all, especially his family and young children.

49ersgirl

01-03-2007, 11:28 AM

I just wanted to express my sincerest condolences to everyone associated with the Broncos community. It was a terrible shock to see the news the day after the last game of the season and it gave me a heavy heart.

The 49ers community understands what you are going through as we lost Thomas Herrion last year after a 49er/Bronco pre-season game.

May God bless everyone during this difficult time.

Peace~

Eddiethefan

01-03-2007, 12:12 PM

Just want to send my deepest thoughts and prayers to the Williams family and to the entire Denver Broncos organization. Darrent had his entire life ahead of him and within seconds was taken forever. This is probably one of, if not the saddest day in Denver sports history. Like coach said he is in a better place now and God has someone very special by his side. Thank you for all the bright memories, we love you D-Will and you'll never be replaced or forgotten. :salute:

BroncoDom

01-03-2007, 12:13 PM

GONE BUT NOT FORGOT
RIP DERRANT #27

americanfoot

01-03-2007, 01:40 PM

It sickens me that this has happened. Fans from any team can appreciate not only the athlete Williams was on the field but the great human being Darrent was. This is a devastating loss for his team, the league, but most importantly his family and friends. My thoughts go out to everyone who had the good fortune of having him in their lives.

TheComeBackKid

01-03-2007, 04:30 PM

To one of the brightest stars in the Bronco's organization. Much love and respect to Darrent Williams, his family, and his friends.

De Dub ~ 27 ~ R.I.P.

westnile27

01-03-2007, 04:54 PM

I would just like to give my respect to all the bronco fans, the team, the organization, and Williams children and family. We all know what Darrent was capable to do and what he would've achieved, I know it feels like we all lost a close family member....so once again much love to Darrent Williams, we know he will always be looking down every Sunday to come.

ChitownBronco

01-03-2007, 05:43 PM

Hey all! I just posted a D Will tribute video on my myspace!
You can check it out here!My myspace (http://www.myspace.com/soundemotion)

ROCKIES

01-03-2007, 07:13 PM

Darrent,

Your star will always shine brite. Rest in peace Brother; you need to compete no more.

broncofan-n-jax

01-03-2007, 09:10 PM

my mother sent me this poem she found last month shortly after my grandmother passed away. i was reading it again today, as i cannot get the sadness of the loss of Darrent out of my heart, and i felt that i should post it here. i appreciate all of you being on here expressing your sadness, and though my family, friends, and co-workers don't understand my extreme sadness over this tragedy, it does me good to know you all are here with bleeding hearts just as i am. may God be with Darrent and all of us who have been touched in some way by this great loss.

What Will Matter

Ready or not, someday it will all come to an end.

There will be no more sunrises, no minutes, hours, or days.

All the things you collected, whether treasured or forgotten,

Will pass to someone else.

Your wealth, fame or temporal power, will shrivel to irrelevance.

It will not matter what you owed, or what you were owed.

Your grudges, resentments, frustrations, and jealousies will finally disappear.

So, too, your hopes, ambitions, plans, and to-do lists will expire.

The wins and losses that once seemed so important will fade away.

And, it won’t matter where you came from or where you lived at the end.

It won’t matter whether you were beautiful or brilliant.

Even your gender or skin color will be irrelevant.

So what will matter?

How will the value of your days be measured?

What will matter is not what you bought, but what you built.

And, not what you got, but what you gave.

What will matter is not your success, but your significance.

What will matter is not what you learned, but what you taught.

What will matter is every act of integrity, compassion, courage, or sacrifice,

that enriched, empowered, or encouraged others to emulate your example.

What will matter is not your competence, but your character.

What will matter is not how many people you knew,

But how many will feel a lasting loss when you are gone.

What will matter is not your memories, but the memories that live in

those who love you.

What will matter is how long you will be remembered by whom and for what.

Living a life that matters doesn’t happen by accident! Its not a matter
of circumstance but of choice.

Choose to live a life that matters.

Bronco Cutie

01-04-2007, 02:54 AM

No words can adequately express my sadness and anger over the tragic death of Darrent Williams. My deepest condolences and heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to his family, teammates, coaches, and all who knew and loved him.

I am new to this message board, but I have been a Bronco fan since the era of Morton and Moses. I don't think I've ever felt this low about anything Bronco related. Quite frankly, it sucks. This shooting was unfair, pointless, and cruel, and whoever did it needs to pay and pay dearly. I wish I could deal with this injustice with the grace that Darrent's mother did when interviewed on the news last night. She is right, the shooter(s) will have to live with this heinous deed for the rest of their lives, but somehow, even that doesn't seem like justice enough right now.

Rest in peace, Darrent. I'm sure your smile is lighting up the heavens as I write this. May angels surround you always!

Thanks to the rest of you here for letting me vent...

Darth Llama

01-04-2007, 03:27 AM

As a Cardinal Fan, living in Arizona, I have always had a love for the Broncos as well. Darrent Williams was one of my favorite players to watch. He had a great attitude, and always played with an enthusiastic smile on his face.

His death is a tragedy not only for the great fans in Denver, not only for the Denver Broncos, but for all fans of sports everywhere. It's always a shame to see a talented young athlete cut down in his prime. My sincere condolences to the family of this fine young man.

Rest in Peace Darrent, you will not soon be forgotten. We'll ALL miss you.

sonsofslam

01-04-2007, 01:20 PM

Darrent, you will always be missed in the secondary. Their was a reason why Deltha was sent to the Bengals. You were in your rightful place in Denver and now someone has takin' you away. You were perfect opposite Champ. Mike and Pat, please reitre Darrent's number. When I heard you are only 5'8 I was shocked! You always played like were 8'0 feet tall.

ThunderGirl

01-04-2007, 03:33 PM

I saw this and I thought of Darrent......

The Star Rider
by Cassandra Barrientos

Oh, My Beloved Child, He has chosen you.
You above all others for you see...
His time has come too.

Get on the back of greatness
With a crystal horn and gossamer wings of silver
Those hooves were made for running
Along a galaxy which goes on forever.

Those eyes look sad-
yet a flame burns too.
This noble steed has strength enough;
Enough strength to carry you.

"Here my darling.
I boost you into the saddle"
Your Guardian stands up tall;
He's seen enough of battle.
It is said that Heaven lies amongst the constellations
and that everyone must find it someday.
My dear one... that is why he has come-
To take you to a place where the sun graces each day.

Don't fear little one
He will guide you with his graces.
You will not slip or fall
He will guide you to that wonderous place.

Father will be there, of that I am sure.
He has waited for this date.
He will scoop you into his arms and hug you
when you meet at the Golden Gate.

One day, I promise you
together we will soar to the moon.
Good-bye my star rider.
Starlight shines in your angel's mane
The great one grows impatient
It's time for you to walk down the starry lane.

Babe

01-04-2007, 03:41 PM

hey girl...

post this one in that thread that is the "Poetic postings" thread.

want to get that one in there.

tku
B

Babe

01-04-2007, 03:41 PM

sorry....i mean...if you want......

LOL

B

ThunderGirl

01-04-2007, 03:54 PM

sorry....i mean...if you want......

LOL

B

I just posted one of my own in there.

Babe

01-04-2007, 04:25 PM

i have been seeing pictures of darrent off & on here........

I don't get much bronco stuff down here, much less games......

you know, he is always smiling..

B

aleshamom4

01-04-2007, 07:04 PM

MR. PRESIDENT FORD IS NOW LEADING YOU BY THE HAND, DARRENT-YOU ARE SO TALENT, SO GENEROUS, SO SPECIAL....BRONCOS AND BRONCOS FANS, LET'S KEEP HIS SPIRIT ALIVE AND BURNING!!!! ALTHOUGH DARRENT IS IN A BETTER PLACE AND IS NOW ONE OF THE ANGELS, WE NEED TO KEEP THE FIGHT AND DRIVE ALIVE-FOR HIS MEMORY, FOR HIS FAMILY, FOR OUR TEAM :rockon: :salute:

:fight: -GET THOSE KILLERS AND ON DEATH ROW THEY SHALL GO!!!!NOTHING LESS WILL SUFFICE!!!! :fight:

Babe

01-04-2007, 07:12 PM

thanks mom..

yes, on the tube this week, we have been burying the 38th (i believe)
President of the United States.

they won't make it to death row.

B

ThunderGirl

01-04-2007, 08:40 PM

I am watching the Broncos/Ravens game and it is making me extremly sad. Darrent just ran a kick back to about the Ravens 40 yard line. It showed him smiling with his frohawk. I am really gonna miss that man. :sad:

Babe

01-04-2007, 08:44 PM

i was talking to Lordy yesterday.
To talk to Steve.

How we can take "game memories" from the board
download to CD
give to family...

the game memories from the fans of Darrent that loved him so...

B

booger

01-04-2007, 09:09 PM

Only once since John Elway retired was I TRULY moved by a personnel change. OK, Twice,. I shed a tear when Eddie Mc retired.... but I marveled when I saw D-will in action on and off the field. He was talent and class incarnate. He didn't go get his grill gold plated to prove his skill and success (ghetto J), he PLAYED and Proved that he belonged opposite Champ. He was the next Champ. Jay Cutler made me feel the same way for the second time sine John retired. Jay, Champ, Javon, Lynch, Wilson, Paymah, Marshall, Smith.....and every other BRONCO I am to distraught to mention..... to you I say this: KICK ASS in 2007 for a man that embodied the spirit of Bronco Football! KICK ASS for Darrent. KICK ASS for Javon watching his brother die in his arms. KICK ASS for Mrs. Williams. KICK ASS for Momma Williams! KICK ASS FOR A SOCIETY THAT IS SICK OF THIS SENSELESS CRAP! Scott Henich

lsfii2

01-04-2007, 10:03 PM

Darrent, you were an amazing person on this earth for the 24 years you walked it.

The killers must be caught and they must pay for their actions.

Acidburn05

01-04-2007, 10:07 PM

The best player ever

Babe

01-04-2007, 10:09 PM

someone brought up yesterday.........

do the bullet holes in the hummer match the bullets used in the Lonnie Clark murder........?????

that is a question I would really like answered bigtime......

B

BRONCOSFAN_N_AZ

01-04-2007, 11:19 PM

I Guess God Needed A Great Cornerback For His All-pro Team Of Angels. He Definatly Took One Of The Best. You Will Be Missed Darrent Williams! Thanks For Everything You Did!! I'm Sure You Will Continue To Do Great Things. My Prayers Are With The Family And All The Other Fans Of Yours.

24zone

01-05-2007, 12:13 AM

When I heard the terrible news, it made me sick.
It hurts.
Lets all remember the charisma, and positive vibes he created.
I'll always be a fan of D.W.

Babe

01-05-2007, 09:01 AM

By John C. Ensslin, Rocky Mountain News
January 5, 2007
There are many people in Colorado who have been saddened by the drive-by shooting death of Darrent Williams in the early hours of New Year's Day.
But the pain of his loss is felt particularly hard in a noisy, brightly lit entertainment room at the J. Churchill Owen Branch of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver, 3480 W. Kentucky Ave.

It's a large room filled with kids jostling and playing John Madden Football and other video games. And while there's never been a formal dedication ceremony, it's a room the kids informally have taken to calling the "Darrent Williams Room."

In the fall of 2005 as a rookie cornerback, Williams visited the branch and two others as part of a partnership between the Broncos and Rent-a-Center, which had furnished the room.

There is a picture on one wall of Williams surrounded by some of the kids. There is an autographed framed jersey on another wall.

When reporters started calling this week, branch director Steve Martinez asked one of the youngsters who had met Williams that day if he wished to talk about the slain Bronco.

"OK," the kid said. "But I might just start to cry."

He didn't.

"For them, it's very painful," Martinez said. "It's someone who came into their lives, and now he's gone."

Here is what one of the kids at the club had to say Thursday about the slain Broncos player:

Duane Rich, 12, started coming to the Owen Branch four years ago. The day that Williams visited happened to be the same day that the Owen Yellowjackets, the branch's football team, was in a playoff game. Duane was a running back on the team.

"I was playing in the gym," the boy said. "I remember when he came in and everybody stopped what they were doing.

"He was talking to us about football, about trying to do your best and don't give up, even when you're down.

"He was telling us that he was going to watch our game. He left and he came back and he watched a little bit of our game.

"I didn't see him until the end of the game.

"At first, I thought, oh yeah, he's just saying that to make us play better. But then I realized he actually took time out of his day just to come by and watch us play our game."

The Yellowjackets lost that game 14-7. Duane doesn't remember his teammates talking much about Williams being there.

But, he added, "I bet the other players noticed," he said. "I bet everybody noticed."

Services, vigil

• Today: Visitation from 5 to 7 p.m. MST at Great Commission Baptist Church, 7700 McCart Ave., in Fort Worth, Texas. The public is welcome.

• Saturday: Funeral at 11 a.m. MST at Great Commission Baptist Church. The public is welcome. The church can seat about 2,300.

• Invesco Field at Mile High: Candlelight vigil for fans at Invesco Field at Mile High at 2:15 p.m. Saturday.

• Fund for children: A fund for Williams' two children has been set up by the team. Contributions can be sent to Darrent Williams Children's Fund, c/o Denver Broncos, 13655 Broncos Parkway, Englewood, CO 80112.

NinerdDeb

01-05-2007, 09:19 AM

My prayers go to Darrent Mother, Children, Teammates and all of love ones.

God bless you

cheach

01-05-2007, 05:02 PM

We gonna miss you darent but we will never forget you. Fly with the angels.

RIP

RckyMtnThunder

01-05-2007, 06:03 PM

Lori2002

01-05-2007, 08:44 PM

When I first heard about I thought I was dreaming, but the news kept repeating and I could say was this couldn't be happening. He was so young and such a nice guy. Why would anyone do this to someone... I am def having a hard time with his death. Darrent was only two years older then me.

RIP Darrent Williams

You will never be forgotten.

lostinwisconsin

01-05-2007, 08:59 PM

My family and I live in WI but our hearts are still in CO. So we watch all the games that they air on the T.V. and the rest on the computer. With the untimely death of Mr. Williams the news we get in Wisconsin is very little. So I am coming here to get more of the real news so any input would be very nice.
My family and I very sad that a night of what seems like fun with friends had to end in such a violent way. I pray that hey will find the people who did this and let Darrent's children know that justice will be done.
lostinwisconsin

BobbinRob

01-05-2007, 09:48 PM

This is really difficult for me, and a whole lot of other Bronco fans out here in beautiful (now snow) Southern California. Yeah, tomorrow will be another sunny day in the boring mid-70's! Darrent Williams was truly a gifted athlete and a very special person. He will be sorely missed - - what a senseless tragic waste, and for what motive? We have been displaced from Denver nearly 20 years, but we never miss watching the games on TV, and of course, the playoff games and Super Bowls were the absolute best of all. I am so proud of the Denver Bronco organization (Bowlen, Shanahan, et al) for the way in which they have handled the loss of Darrent Williams. Talk about a CLASS ACT! I think they have demonstrated very clearly that their top priorities are the people - players, staff, coaches - all the way down to the janitors! Yes, of course, it is a business, and needs to be run like one, but the death of a great player like D Will goes way beyond "business". Thanks Pat Bowlen, Thanks Mike Shanahan, Thank you ONE AND ALL! From your faithful fan base in Southern California,

BobbinRob and all the Millers

Sammy10

01-06-2007, 08:44 AM

A Memorial of Time, Commitment and Love---

As so many of you, I have been riveted by the senseless death of Derrent Williams. I too have grappled with the enormity of the loss and concerns for his children, family, and teammates. However, it has finally struck that traditional memorials and money are not the answer. Somewhere, if this senseless violence is to end, the real men among you are going to have to realize that a “flash in the pan” type of caring is simply that, and any lasting change must come from continued commitment and caring to give of time and love to the youngsters in all our communities beginning with our families and reaching out to those less fortunate.

Only by giving a hour---a week or a month—a gift of time and love--can we help to change the spiraling violence and ridiculous egocentric behavior of gangs in our midst. What a incomprehensible “me-centered behavior” to a miff---shoot the offender.

Our boys need real men to mentor them—not sugar daddies to hand them a new X-Box or wii. Our kids all need the time required to teach our young men about the simple stuff in life—making a promise and keeping it, tying a fishing knot, holding a nail while building a bird house. Only by living the example of caring will this tide be turned.

Our kids are mothered to death. IMO, they need real men to step up, get away from the message boards and board meetings, and CARE. Whether you make a promise of “giving” an hour a week or a month, this would be the real memorial to Derrent. He didn’t just march around the boys and girls clubs. He came BACK. The kids knew he was genuine cause he didn’t do it with the cameras following him. He wasn’t a flash in the pan. The only way to build trust among our young people is to make that promise of time and keep it, just as Derrent did.

His teammates can honor him by spending time with his children, not just this week, but for years to come.

His fans can honor him by giving of themselves to be there to listen to, to play with, to SHOW other young men how to care. Whether Big Brothers, or the Boys and Girls Clubs, or churches offer this venue, it really doesn’t matter. What does matter is that YOU will be honoring Derrent by doing something that can really affect the lives of the young boys within our communities—making a commitment to give of yourself and your time on a continuing basis—THIS is a living memorial.

californiabronc

01-06-2007, 10:39 AM

i have been a bronco fan since i was a child growing up in northeastern colorado. my dad turned me onto the team and i've bled blue and orange ever since. i've lived in california for the past 20 years and still love the broncos. it was with the greatest sadness that i awoke new years day and read the news about darrent williams. i was stunned and perhaps like many scoured all the news reports for something that would say it was not true. sadly, the news reports only confirmed the awful truth. like many bronco fans, i was immediately a fan of darrent's when he entered the league. his smile was infectious, his energy unmatched and his enthusiasm for the game was a joy to watch. i am surprised by how deeply i have been affected by the death of someone i didn't even know, but his death has affected me profoundly. i cried when i read the reports and am crying as i write this. i wish to send my most sincere condolences to his family, his friends and to everyone in the bronco organization. true to form, you have handled this with the class befitting such a special group. i will miss you d. williams. may you rest in peace and may god claim your soul.

OrAnGe CrUsH!!

01-06-2007, 12:17 PM

go this site and read the article http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/ap/football/4450929.html :jawdrop:

OrAnGe CrUsH!!

01-06-2007, 12:21 PM

I've always told everyone that if I'm lucky enough to make it to heaven when I die I'm positive that it will look exactly like Invesco on Game Day. Now I know that if I get to see it, Darrent will be there returning a kick 99 yards for a TD. Go get 'em Darrent, WE'LL MISS YOU!!!!! :halo:
THIS IS THE BEST QUOTE ON THE ENTIRE SITE. IT APPLYS FOR EVERYONE. DARRENT WILL ALWAYS KO THE OPPONITE. but he didn't on january 1st, 2007 :salute: :fight:

TheChiefs

01-06-2007, 12:42 PM

THIS IS THE BEST QUOTE ON THE ENTIRE SITE. IT APPLYS FOR EVERYONE. DARRENT WILL ALWAYS KO THE OPPONITE. but he didn't on january 1st, 2007 :salute: :fight:

God I hope not!!

Anyways im sorry for the loss. We chief fans went through a similiar incident in loseing our rock in our D, Derrick Thomas. Ofcourse he wasnt gunned down. But we know how you ppl feel..

I hope the cops find the perpitrators and make them pay severely with a couple of phone books to the head! :fight:

Big Ben's Girl

01-06-2007, 05:56 PM

Hey guys, this is my first post here, and I just wanted to let you all know that this diehard Steelers fan (since I was a little girl) is keeping you guys, the Broncos organization and Darrent's family and friends in her prayers.

Like all of you, I was shocked to hear of this, just as I was with Cory Lidle (I'm als one of the resident Yankee fans here). Stay strong and just know that Darrent won't be forgotten.

I Salute You no. 27. :salute:

vader0309

01-06-2007, 06:11 PM

In my mind Williams was a great person, who will still in memory impact the game. He was a great individual who would have changed the game. In my mind they should honor him by retiring his number. It may sound weird to some to retire a players number after two seasons, but this kid had heart, and he will be missed.

locch

01-06-2007, 07:59 PM

Just wanted to send out my condolences to the Williams family. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Gonna miss you DW.......... RIP buddy!

Winnipeg, Manitoba
Canada

ChargerChris

01-07-2007, 02:23 PM

It's a few days late, but I wanted to pass along my condolences to the Williams family and the Broncos fans for the terrible loss. Hopefully the police are able to bring the murderers to justice.

ChargersFan34

01-07-2007, 07:00 PM

Born and raised in San Diego I can say I have never really been a Broncos fan. But on occasion certain players on that Rocky Mountain squad catch my attention and garner my respect. Darrent Williams was one such player. You could tell this kid just loved to play ball and loved life even more. Every aspect of his game and who he was I respect. He had this quality that screamed enthusiasm and the fact that he could just lock down anybody was pretty awesome. I never really have been emotionally affected by the death of someone I dont know, but I mourn for Darrent. Where are we as a society when people just shoot each other a little conflict. May Darrent rest in peace, he will be missed by all.

RIP DW

01-07-2007, 07:15 PM

we will miss u on the big d :sad: :salute:

BaileyTheBest

01-07-2007, 07:44 PM

Ya know, I just noticed the other day that Darrent and I were both born on September 27. That's pretty cool to share that with him.

mdsd77

01-08-2007, 06:38 PM

That we feel for your loss.

RIP and may faith ease the pain of the families and friends he left behind.

Matt Day

ArmyTom

01-09-2007, 08:26 AM

As a lifelong fan here in Oklahoma, I got the chance to watch Darrent every since his days here at Oklahoma State University. I cannot believe that something as senseless as this occurs on a daily basis. What great talent and entusiasim he brought to the field and team. I just got doem reading the story about his service and tears started to flow. May his soul rest in peace and all the good that he stood for while here with us will live on. My family condolences and sympothy go out to his childern, mother and the Broncos family. RIP D WILL

lsfii2

01-09-2007, 08:28 AM

Ya know, I just noticed the other day that Darrent and I were both born on September 27. That's pretty cool to share that with him.
I actually have a few friends born that day too.

lsfii2

01-09-2007, 08:29 AM

Darrent, Bronco Nation will never forget all of the good you did for us. Thank you for the two years of your life you spent with us.

raziel

01-09-2007, 01:38 PM

RIP Darrent. I live in Saskatchewan and my dream is to someday cheer on the broncos at mile high stadium, watching all my favorite players, including darrent, what he lacked in size, he made up for in pure talent and heart, your soul and memories will live on in all of us fans here.

SuperBowl32

01-09-2007, 07:36 PM

Even after more than a week, it still seems impossible to believe that Darrent is gone. I hope his family can take some consolation from knowing how much his teammates, coaches and all Bronco fans loved and admired him.

LuvMyBroncos

01-09-2007, 07:51 PM

Sorry guys (and gals)...I just posted this under the news thread, and I should have posted it here.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

This link was posted last night, but for those of you who haven't "ALL READY" seen it, it's awesome, and it really made me feel better. R Kelley's "You're the Greatest" (I think that's the title) accompanies the video...very upbeat and inspiring!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bt2BispCXO0

RIP D-Will...We love you and miss you!!!

SlvrSurfRidr

01-10-2007, 01:24 PM

Just saw the clip on CBS 4 Denver (http://cbs4denver.com/video) where Kyle and John talk about the funeral. That poem was amazing, so thought I would repost.

I had a lot to do
More than most of you
Yet, you wonder why I left,
I finished early...

I started on time
I put in a full day's work
But I finished early..

You thought my road would be a long one
But I did run the race
I just finished early..
By measure of man's time,
Not God's own time
You look at the years
But I did all I was sent to do.
I just finished early...

With God it counts not at all
How long, how brief, how great or how small
He looks for a ready heart
I just finished early...

We miss ya DWill - it's been 10 days and the pain is still as real as ever. Hopefully Javon can find a way to push on. I know that Broncomania has his back all the way. :salute:

broncokidd2727

01-10-2007, 06:04 PM

If it's true... I don't know what to say. Thoughts and prayers are with his family and the team. Horrible.
my prayers go out to his family too....bless all of you....u raised a great football player and im sure a wonderful son

BroncoEddie

01-20-2007, 10:17 AM

Darrent was a little dude who played with a huge heart. Too soon gone, and one more sensless killing on planet earth. Prayers to his family and friends for peace and comfort! He will be missed!

BroncoBJ4MVP!!!

01-31-2007, 02:36 AM

OMG!!!!!!!!!

thats HORRIBLE!!
holy cow!
ive never felt this bad b4!
wow this is awfuL!

i was PRAYING it was a sick joke and wanting u banned :(
damn this sucks!

i just turned to Channel 4!
y do i have to go to bed ona Bad note!
I LOVED DARRENT!

im sorry for saying anything bad about you!

horrible!!

Havnt posted in this thread in a while but i think that was my first post when i found out he died^

i was just getting ready to go to bed and i saw a thread about: HORRIBLE News in Broncos country!

figured it was another negative article about our loss But wow!

im still shocked
This ones gooing to hurt forever

RIP D-will :salute: