Chette L. Williams, a former Auburn football player and the team's chaplain for over two decades, tragically passed away on Sunday evening after falling from his pontoon boat on Lake Martin in Elmore County, Alabama. His body was recovered approximately 90 minutes after the incident, which occurred near a dock.
Williams, 61, had a deep connection with Auburn University. He played linebacker for the Tigers from 1982 to 1984 before transitioning to the role of team chaplain in 1999. Beyond his chaplaincy, Williams served as the school's campus director for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and the state director for Urban Ministries for FCA. He also held pastoral positions at various churches throughout his career, including New Covenant Baptist Church in New Orleans and New Song Baptist Church in Mobile, Alabama. From 1995 to 1999, he presided over Impact Ministries in Spartanburg, South Carolina.
The Auburn football program expressed their profound sorrow at Williams' passing on social media, highlighting his significant influence on numerous individuals during his 26 years with the team. Former Auburn head coach, Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), also shared his condolences, emphasizing Williams' role in guiding athletes towards a purpose beyond the playing field.
Williams' dedication to his faith and the Auburn community was evident throughout his life. After earning a bachelor's degree in adult education from Auburn in 1985, he became a licensed minister in 1987 and was ordained the following year. He furthered his religious education by obtaining a Master of Divinity from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary in 1993.
Williams is survived by his two daughters. His son, Chette Jr., predeceased him in 2019.
