Tragedy Strikes Auburn Football: Beloved Team Pastor Dies in Lake Martin Accident
ALEXANDER CITY, Ala. — Auburn University and its football family are mourning the loss of a cherished figure. The Rev. Chette L. Williams, who served as the team’s pastor for over two decades, tragically passed away on Sunday after falling into the waters of Lake Martin in central Alabama. He was 61 years old.
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency confirmed that Williams fell from his pontoon boat on Sunday evening. The accident occurred near a dock at Kowaliga Restaurant, a popular spot on the lake in Elmore County. After an extensive search, his body was recovered approximately 90 minutes later. The news has sent shockwaves through the Auburn community and beyond, as Williams was not only a spiritual leader but also a beloved mentor to countless athletes and students.
A Legacy of Faith and Football
Williams’ connection to Auburn ran deep. Before becoming the team chaplain in 1999, he was a standout linebacker for the Auburn Tigers, playing from 1982 to 1984. His love for the university and its football program was evident in everything he did. Beyond his role with the team, Williams also served as the campus director for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) and the State Director for Urban Ministries for FCA, according to his biography on Auburn’s official website.
For 25 years, Williams was a steady presence on the sidelines and in the locker room, offering guidance, prayer, and support to players and coaches alike. His impact extended far beyond the football field, as he helped young athletes navigate the challenges of college life while instilling values of faith, purpose, and perseverance.
Tributes Pour In for a Remarkable Leader
One of the most heartfelt tributes came from Sen. Tommy Tuberville, who served as Auburn’s head football coach from 1999 to 2008. Tuberville, who worked closely with Williams during his tenure, described him as a “remarkable man who led hundreds of young people to the Lord through the years.”
“His leadership has been a steady part of Auburn athletics for more than two decades. But more than sports, Brother Chette helped athletes understand that their purpose was much greater than anything they could ever accomplish on the field,” Tuberville wrote in a statement shared on social media. His words captured the essence of Williams’ mission: to inspire others to see beyond the game and embrace a higher calling.
Auburn’s Loss, Heaven’s Gain
Williams’ passing leaves a void that will be difficult to fill. For many, he was more than a pastor—he was a friend, a mentor, and a father figure. His ability to connect with people on a personal level made him a beloved figure in the Auburn community and a source of strength for those who knew him.
As the Auburn family grieves, it’s clear that Williams’ legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched. His work with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and his dedication to Auburn football have left an indelible mark on the university and its athletic program.
Remembering Rev. Chette L. Williams
Here’s a quick look at the life and legacy of Rev. Chette L. Williams:
- Age: 61
- Role: Auburn football team chaplain since 1999
- Playing Career: Auburn linebacker from 1982 to 1984
- Other Positions: Campus Director for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and State Director for Urban Ministries for FCA
- Impact: Mentored hundreds of athletes and students, helping them find purpose beyond sports
As the Auburn community reflects on Williams’ life, his contributions to the university and its football program will not be forgotten. His unwavering faith, compassionate leadership, and dedication to helping others will continue to inspire future generations.
While the circumstances of his passing are heartbreaking, those who knew him take comfort in the knowledge that his life was one of service, love, and faith. Rest in peace, Brother Chette. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
Originally Written by: Associated Press
