I always thought the corps went to hell after I left.  I think every zip (senior) that marches final review, graduates and departs Aggieland, has uttered these words, probably since 1876.  “The Corp’s gone to hell!”  For most of us former cadets, it’s a kind of joke…kind of.  But for me, all joking aside, I’ve come to realize that it’s absolutely NOT true.  The Corps didn’t go to hell after I left because Brian was still there.  Brian Will Jr. was one of my fish (freshman cadet) when I was a senior and commander of Squadron 18.  I only knew Brian for a very short window of time at Texas A&M, but he left a permanent impression on me and on many others.  He was a fantastic person of the highest caliber, a highly disciplined cadet of unshakable resolve, he never complained, always smiled…even when he shouldn’t!  He was positivity undaunted.  There’s a spirit can ne’er be told…that WAS Brian Will Jr.  Brian was, from the moment he entered the quadrangle till the moment he left, respectful and true…“as true to a trust reposed as the needle to the pole.”  He didn’t just memorize the words; he embodied the standard.  He was a true Aggie to the core.  Brian was one of the most outstanding people that I have ever known…a credit to his parents, his brother, his family.  It was an honor to march alongside Brian, I was saddened at the news of his passing, his memorial service was truly uplifting and I look forward, with great anticipation, to seeing him again…smiling…up in heaven.  

To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.  2 Corinthians 5:8.  

And so we shall be with Him forever.  Therefore comfort each other with these words.  1 Thessalonians 4:17-18.  

Brian…thanks for the memories.  Thanks and gig’em!!  See you soon!

Coach Will was more than just a coach—he was a steady source of inspiration and encouragement for every student he guided. During his time in Plano with the cross country team, he instilled not only discipline and endurance, but also a genuine belief in each runner’s potential. He had a remarkable way of pushing his athletes to achieve more than they thought possible, always balancing high expectations with unwavering support.
The foundation he built for their running careers went far beyond race times and medals. He taught resilience, commitment, and the importance of showing up—even on the hardest days. The countless hours and energy he devoted to training his students left a lasting imprint, one that will continue to shape their lives for years to come. Many of his runners carry forward not just improved athletic ability, but a deeper confidence in themselves because of him.
Coach Will’s legacy lives on in every mile his athletes run and every challenge they face with determination. May he rest in peace and be welcomed by Jesus with open arms.

I was “fish buddies” with Brian during the spring of 2005. He loved the Corps of Cadets and his friends in SQ-18. He is included in some of the best memories I have at Texas A&M. I don’t think I’ve met anyone who was a more genuinely nice guy. He was funny too…always quoting random movies and prowling the halls of the dorm trying to sneak up on you  and impersonate the sound of the Predator behind you. I will really miss Brian. People go different directions after college and that’s understandable, but it makes me so very sad that I will not have a chance to hang out with him at an alumni BBQ someday. Rest easy, Brian. We will all carry you in our memories. 

Here.

My condolences to the family of our beloved Coach Will.  My son Aiden ran track at Plano Senior Highschool where  Coach Will was  an assistant coach. He was very inspirational and supportive of the young men. He encouraged my son and everyone on the team to be the best they could be, both on and off the track. Coach Will made a lasting impact on my son and many others. We are grateful to have crossed paths with him in this lifetime

OBITUARY

Brian Douglas Will Jr.

August 2, 1984 – April 17, 2026

Stonebriar Funeral Home and Cremation Services

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders