William Vandry

It is with a heart that is broken into a million pieces that I announce the passing of my husband William. He suffered a medical emergency on Monday, March 23, 2026, and despite the best efforts of EMS, he was not able to be revived. Those who knew William know that while he was incredibly strong, he was also incredibly selfless. He had a passion for helping people and would drop everything at a moment’s notice to help someone in need. Health was his passion, and he researched non-stop, looking for answers for every disease and condition. He spent countless hours mentoring his students, not just in Jiu Jitsu, but in their health and their lives. There are many that have their own stories of how he literally saved their lives. He hated injustice more than anything in this world, and was always ready to fight any battle. Everywhere we went he made an effort to talk to people, hear them, and help them if he could. He was a real life Superman. For his students, he was a true innovator in Jiu Jitsu, words can’t describe his skill, and innovations on the mats. He was a magician, putting on a show for every class. For me, he was my partner in this world, making the best of every situation, always finding a silver lining, always making me laugh and putting a smile on my face. He has left such a huge hole behind, in this world and in my heart. I don’t know what the future holds, for me, for our school, for everything we built together. I don’t know why he left us all too soon. He was certain in his faith in God, and I know he is in heaven. I appreciate your kind words, stories, hugs. He took care of me and I was not ready to face this world without him by my side.

William was born in Panama Canal Zone and lived in Panama, Germany, and Texas. He graduated from Ellison High School in Killeen, Texas. He is survived by his wife Chandra, his mother Angela, brother Thomas, and sister Bessie.

A memorial service for William will be held on Saturday, April 4, 2026 at 1:00 PM at Cook-Walden Chapel of the Hills Funeral Home, 9700 Anderson Mill Road, Austin, Texas, 78750.

Due to the unexpected nature of this loss, in lieu of flowers please consider donating to his wife Chandra at https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-memory-of-prof-william-vandry-support-his-wife-chandra