CANTON, Ohio – Lawrence Williams named his youngest son "Aeneas" because he wanted something that would distinguish the child from the ordinary.
Turns out it wasn't just the first name that made Aeneas Williams unique. He became one of the best cornerbacks in NFL history and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame Saturday night.
In his induction speech, Williams said he wanted to leave listeners with two thoughts: "Begin with the end in mind," and "Die Empty."
In other words, set goals and give everything.
"I've already written my obituary," Williams said. "Most people go to the grave full instead of empty. If I would ask you where you can you find the most talent? Don't tell me Fort Knox. Don't tell me money. Don't tell me a house. I'll tell you where you can find the most wealth, it's in the cemetery. Because most people go to the grave full instead of empty."
That's the philosophy Williams has carried through two professions: football and communicating with people. Now a minister in St. Louis, Williams' 25-minute induction speech was passionate, and by the end, Williams' face was beaded with sweat, as if he had just taken his helmet off after a game.
Williams paid tribute to his parents, Lawrence and Lillian, who raised three sons in New Orleans.
"I never had to look outside my home for heroes," he said.
They set a high standard for their three sons in academics, athletics and citizenship.
"My dad told me, 'If you ever have to choose between me and the police, choose the police,'" Williams said.
Williams started his speech by thanking the teams for which he played, the Cardinals and Rams, including Cardinals owner Bill Bidwill and his family.
Williams became the first player drafted by the Cardinals in Arizona to make it to the Hall of Fame. On the walk to the stage Saturday evening, Williams stopped and hugged Cardinals President Michael Bidwill, who was accompanied by his sister Nicole, brother Tim and Tim's wife, Kristy.
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