Dominique Williams' mother, grateful for support, has message for parents

Just like the drums he played, Dominique Williams left a lasting impression on everyone he met -- his infectious smile, charisma and energy reverberating through them to their core.

But just nine days after celebrating his birthday, the Hilton Head Island 17-year-old's vibrant beat was brought to an abrupt halt.

The victim of a shooting at Coligny Beach Park has been described as a talented musician, a caring friend and a hard worker. He played the drums and was part of the youth ministries at two area churches. He was on his Savannah high school football team.

Williams was fatally shot around 8:20 p.m. on July 19, a day after he and the alleged shooter were in a fight at the Cordillo Courts apartment complex. It is unclear if the suspect, who is 15 and being held in a juvenile detention center, will be tried as an adult.

The community has shown an outpouring of support for Williams' family. Hundreds attended his funeral on July 25 at Grace Community Church on the island, singing together, sharing memories and joining in prayer.

Williams' mother, Rudy Milton, now wants to let the community know that she has heard their songs, cherished their memories and felt their prayers.

In a letter submitted to The Island Packet and The Beaufort Gazette on behalf of her family, Milton said she is so grateful for the love shown and for the time she had with her son:

I'm writing to thank this wonderful community for the support over losing our child, Dominique Williams. He was truly a gift from God. Immediately, he became my sole purpose in life. Over the 17 short years I had with Dominique, we shared the most amazing life. From an infant, I knew he had something special. Through the years he grew into quite a talented, brave, strong and smart young man.

My prayer is that, through this horrific circumstance, lessons will be learned by our youth. Parents, don't take one minute you've been given with your child for granted. You all have a chance now to help make a change in our society; don't waste it.

Thank you again for the love and support you have shown my family and I.

God bless you,The Milton and Williams Family

This story was originally published August 8, 2015 at 5:55 PM with the headline "Dominique Williams' mother, grateful for support, has message for parents."